Jock Zonfrillo is a Scottish-born chef best known for his role as a judge on the popular TV show MasterChef Australia.
Jock Zonfrillo died unexpectedly at the age of 46.
In a statement, the chef’s family announced his passing: “With absolutely broken hearts and not knowing how we could live life without him, we are devastated to announce that Jock passed away yesterday (April 30),” as reported by The Independent.
We are too impressed to put it into words and countless stories could be told. Keep this proud Scot in your hearts the next time you sip whiskey for those who crossed his path, became his partner, or were lucky enough to be his family.
We ask that you kindly allow us to grieve privately as we deal with this and find space to honor our irreplaceable husband, father, brother, son, and friend on the other side,” they continued.
The cause of death has not been released, but a Victoria Police spokesman said the death was not being treated as suspicious. They said: “Police were called to a residence on Lygon Street for a welfare check on May 1 and discovered a deceased man there at around 2am. According to Metro “the death of a 46-year-old man is not being investigated as a suspect.
The new season of MasterChef Australia was due to premiere on Monday night, but Network 10 has confirmed it will not air this week due to the depressing news.
Several chefs took to social media to share tributes after hearing the heartbreaking news.
Saddened by the devastating news of Jock Zonfrillo’s passing. I truly enjoyed the time we spent together on MasterChef in Australia. Sending all my love to Lauren and the family in this difficult time Gx
— Gordon Ramsay (@GordonRamsay) May 1, 2023
Gordon Ramsay, who starred in Hell’s Kitchen, wrote: “Saddened by the heartbreaking news of Jock Zonfrill’s passing. We had a great time together on MasterChef Australia. My deepest condolences to Lauren and family during this difficult time.”
Jamie Oliver, a guest on the premiere of the upcoming season, took to Instagram to say that he was “totally shocked” by the news.
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He exclaimed: “We had the best time together on this year’s MasterChef, I can’t say enough about how good he was working with me!” I appreciated Jock’s generosity with his time and spirit on the show. Jock will be missed. I can’t believe I’m writing this.
Colin Fassnidge, a TV presenter and former chef, told Daily Mail Australia: It’s shocking. I’m currently sitting on a rock trying to process everything because I’m at a loss for words. I’m in awe…I had to call my wife right away when I heard this.
Endemol Shine Australia managing director Peter Newman recalled his experience with Zonfrill to The Guardian, saying: “The team loved him on set and his passion for the food and the show was contagious.”
He was also a champion advocate for the MasterChef contestants and always wanted the best for them. He will be missed by the entire MasterChef crew. We express our condolences to his family on this difficult occasion, he added.
Before joining Sydney’s 41 as executive chef in 2000, Zonfrillo began his career as an apprentice to Michelin-starred chef Marc Pierre White. Later, in 2013, he opened his restaurant Orana.
Zonfrillo’s legacy will live on through his restaurants, his cookbooks, and the many chefs and food enthusiasts who have been inspired by his passion and dedication. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him and his contributions to the culinary world will be remembered for many years to come.