Award-winning chef and MasterChef Australia host Jock Zonfrillo has died suddenly at 46 years old, according to a message from his family and a statement from the broadcaster of the show.
“Talented and with plenty of grit”, Zonfrillo, who was born in Glasgow to an Italian father and a Scottish mother, was heavily influenced by the two strong cultures, the network said. “Jock’s charisma, wicked sense of humour, generosity, passion and love for food and his family cannot be measured. He will be greatly missed.”
The broadcaster also said MasterChef will not be airing this week, following Zonfrillo’s sudden death.
No cause of death was given; however, Victoria state police noted his death was not being treated as suspicious.
“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,” his family said in a statement posted on Facebook.
“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.”
Tributes poured in on social media following the news of Zonfrillo’s sudden passing.
Celebrity chef Jamie Oliver also reacted, saying he is in “total shock” to hear of Zonfrillo’s death:
Chef Gordon Ramsey also took to Twitter to send his condolences to Zonfrillo’s family, saying he is “saddened by the devastating news”:
Scottish-born Australian rock star Jimmy Barnes wrote on social media that he had lost a “another dear friend,” and that Zonfrillo was “like a brother” to him:
