MasterChef Australia Judge Jock Zonfrillo Passes Away at 46

MasterChef Australia Judge Jock Zonfrillo Passes Away at 46

MasterChef Australia judge Jock Zonfrillo has passed away at the age of 46, as confirmed by his family in a statement on social media. The Scottish-Australian, who was also a father of four, was found dead by police in Melbourne early on Monday. No cause of death was provided, but Victoria state police have stated that the death is not being treated as suspicious, and they are preparing a report for the coroner.

Zonfrillo was heavily influenced by his parents' Italian and Scottish cultures, and his talent and passion for food were evident throughout his career. His sudden death has shocked the MasterChef Australia broadcaster Network 10 and production house Endemol Shine Australia, who described him as "talented and with plenty of grit".

The judge's charisma, wicked sense of humour, generosity, and love for food and family cannot be measured, and he will be deeply missed by those who knew him. Scottish-born Australian rock star Jimmy Barnes paid tribute to his "dear friend" on social media, describing how they made each other both laugh and cry.

MasterChef Australia will not be airing this week following Zonfrillo's death. It's a sad time for the show, which had Zonfrillo as a beloved judge and inspiration for many aspiring chefs. His passing has left a void in the industry, and he will always be remembered as a proud Scot whose passion for food was contagious.