Melbourne: MasterChef Australia host Jock Zonfrillo has died at the age of 46, his family said in a message on Monday.
Zonfrillo, who was a judge on the popular TV cooking competition, was found dead by police in Melbourne in the early hours of Monday.
On Jock Zonfrillo’s Instagram account, his family issued a statement on Monday that read, “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.”
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“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 further read.
“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,” the note concluded.
No cause of death was given.
MasterChef Australia’s new season was due to premiere on Monday night. However, Network 10, which produces the show in Australia, confirmed that it will not air this week.
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. pic.twitter.com/cmtDuJr19P— MasterChef Australia (@masterchefau) May 1, 2023
“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,” a tweet read.