The world of culinary and entertainment is in mourning today as the tragic news of the sudden death of award-winning chef and MasterChef Australia host Jock Zonfrillo has been confirmed. Zonfrillo was found dead at a house in Melbourne during a welfare check conducted by the police in the early hours of Monday morning. He was only 46 years old.
Zonfrillo, who was born in Glasgow in 1976, had worked in renowned restaurants all around the world before opening his own in Australia. He had a successful career in the culinary world, and his contribution to the industry was immense. He was known for his charismatic personality, wicked sense of humor, and passion for food. His work had inspired a generation of home cooks in Australia.
The news of his sudden death has left the culinary and entertainment industry in shock. Celebrity chefs Jamie Oliver and Gordon Ramsay, as well as a host of former MasterChef contestants, have led the tributes to the star. Oliver, who had been due to appear in the season opener, posted a picture of himself with Zonfrillo and the two other judges, Melissa Leong and Andy Allen, on set on his Instagram account. “I’m in total shock to wake up to the sudden death of [Jock]… we had the best time working together for this year’s MasterChef,” he wrote.
Ramsay also took to Twitter to express his condolences, saying: “Saddened by the devastating news… I truly enjoyed the time we spent together on MasterChef in Australia”. Network 10, the broadcaster of the show, paid tribute to Zonfrillo, saying that his charisma, passion, and wicked sense of humor had inspired a nation of home cooks.
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
Zonfrillo is survived by his wife Lauren Fried and four children, who said in a statement that their hearts were “shattered.” “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 family said.
The 2023 season premiere of MasterChef, which was set to air on the day of Zonfrillo’s death, will not air this week as planned. The production company behind the show has not yet released a statement on how they will address his passing in future episodes.
Zonfrillo’s sudden death is a shock to the culinary and entertainment world. He will be remembered for his immense contribution to the industry, his passion for food, and his charismatic personality. The world has lost a culinary legend, and he will be deeply missed by all who knew him.
