MasterChef Australia judge Jock Zonfrillo dies at 46

New Delhi : MasterChef judge Jock Zonfrillo has passed away at the age of 46 in Australia’s Melbourne. The chef’s family has confirmed the news with an official note shared on social media: "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."

The note continued, "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. We implore you to please let us grieve privately as we find a way to navigate through this and find space on the other side to celebrate our irreplaceable husband, father, brother, son, and friend."

MasterChef Australia‘s Twitter account also issued a statement on Jock’s untimely demise. “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.”

Jock’s Restaurant Orana was recognised with the coveted distinction of three hats in both 2019 and 2020 and he also received global accolades, accepting the prestigious Basque Culinary World Prize in 2018.

In 2019, Jock was named as a judge on MasterChef Australia in which he “took great pride in challenging and coaching the contestants and of course inspiring a nation of home cooks”.

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 note from Masterchef Australia read.