Award-winning chef and MasterChef Australia Judge Jock Zonfrillo passed away at the age of 46. The food industry experienced shock when the news emerged on Monday. He is survived by his wife and four children. The cause of death has not yet been disclosed.
Zonfrillo, who was born and raised in Glasgow, Scotland, started working in kitchens during his teenage years. In London, he apprenticed with chef Marco Pierre White before relocating to Australia in the late 1990s. The news was also posted on the MasterChef Australia official account.
Zonfrillo was one of three judges for the 15th season of MasterChef, which was set to premiere on May 1. But the network has now rescheduled the show.
“Network 10 and Endemol Shine Australia are deeply shocked and saddened at the sudden loss of Jock Zonfrillo, a beloved member of the MasterChef Australia family. Jock passed away in Melbourne yesterday. MasterChef Australia will not air this week,” they wrote.
The award-winning chef Jock Zonfrillo’s family also posted a statement about his death on Instagram. “With completely shattered hearts and without knowing how we can possibly move through life without him, we are devastated to share that Jock passed away yesterday,” read the statement.
“So many words can describe him, so many stories can be told, but at this time we’re too overwhelmed to put them into words. For those who crossed his path, became his mate, or were lucky enough to be his family, keep this proud Scot in your hearts when you have your next whisky,” the statement added.
On Twitter, a number of well-known actors, musicians, and chefs from the food industry posted tributes. They expressed their sorrow and condolences and wished their family the fortitude to endure hardship. Those who spoke out included famous chefs Kunal Kapur, Gordon Ramsay, and Jamie Oliver.
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