Masterchef Australia host Jock Zonfrillo dies suddenly, aged 46

His death was confirmed on the day of the 2023 season premiere

The Scotsman, who had worked with some of the world's most famous chefs in restaurants across the globe, was found dead at a house in Melbourne in the early hours of Monday morning by police.

His death is not being treated as suspicious.

In a statement, his family said their hearts had been "shattered."

“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 family said.

“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.”

Australian TV channel, Network 10, confirmed the news of Zonfrillo's death on the day it was due to air the 2023 season premier of Masterchef.

The pre-recorded show will not air this week as planned.

Gordon Ramsay, who was a regular guest on Masterchef, paid tribute to the host.

In a tweet, he said he was "saddened by the devastating news."

Meanwhile, Australian singer Jimmy Barnes said that Jock "was like a brother" to him, adding that he had been left "speechless" by the news.

Born in Glasgow in 1976, Zonfrillo began working in kitchens at the age of 12. By 15, he had become one of the youngest-ever apprentices to work at luxury Scottish resort, The Turnberry Hotel.

Just two years later, he started working for Michelin-starred British chef Marco Pierre White at his famous Hyde Park Hotel.

In his 2021 memoir though, he spoke openly about his drug addiction during his teenage years, when he said he became broke, homeless and addicted to heroin.

After moving to Australia in 2000, he opened a number of restaurants, including the award-winning Restaurant Orana in Adelaide in 2013.

He became Masterchef host in 2019, when he was announced as part of an all-new lineup on the show.

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