Celebrity chef and MasterChef judge Jock Zonfrillo dies

Celebrity chef and MasterChef judge Jock Zonfrillo dies

The way forward for GraspChef is in limbo as Jock Zonfrillo’s family members come to phrases with the movie star chef’s demise.

Zonfrillo, 46, a choose on GraspChef, was discovered lifeless in Melbourne yesterday morning.

Police made the tragic discovery after being referred to as to an deal with on Lygon Street in Carlton for a welfare examine. at 2am.

Jock Zonfrillo has died aged 46.
Jock Zonfrillo has died aged 46. (Network 10)

The newest season of GraspChef, which is known to have accomplished filming, was on account of premiere final evening however was stopped from going to air out of respect for Zonfrillo.

His demise is just not being handled as suspicious, police mentioned. He is survived by his spouse Lauren Fried and his 4 kids.

Zonfrillo’s household confirmed his sudden demise in a press release, saying they have been “devastated” and overwhelmed”.

“With fully shattered hearts and with out understanding how we are able to presumably transfer by way of life with out him, we’re devastated to share that Jock handed away yesterday,” the statement read.

“So many phrases can describe him, so many tales might be instructed, however presently we’re too overwhelmed to place them into phrases.

“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 allow us to grieve privately as we discover a option to navigate by way of this and discover area on the opposite facet to have a good time our irreplaceable husband, father, brother, son and good friend.”

Jock Zonfrillo sets a tart challenge on MasterChef 2021.
Jock Zonfrillo during a tart challenge on MasterChef in 2021. (Supplied)
***EMBARGOED FOR GOOD WEEKEND, AUGUST 7/21 ISSUE***
Jock Zonfrillo photographed for Good Weekend in Sydney, May 2021.

Photograph by Nic Walker (photographer on contract, no restrictions)

Grooming: Desiree Wise
Jock Zonfrillo photographed for Good Weekend in Sydney in May 2021. (Nic Walker)
Zonfrillo had a turbulent upbringing before finding success as a chef and restaurateur.
Zonfrillo had a turbulent upbringing before finding success as a chef and restaurateur. (Renee Nowytarger/Sydney Morning Herald)

Network 10 has not said what will happen now with the latest season of MasterChef.

“Jock was recognized to Australians as a chef, best-selling writer, philanthropist and GraspChef choose however he will probably be finest remembered as a loving father, husband, brother and son,” a statement from Network 10 And Endemol Shine Australia said.

“Determined and gifted and with loads of grit, Jock was born in Glasgow to an Italian father and a Scottish mom, which meant his adolescence have been closely influenced by two sturdy cultures and it was his obsession with meals and need for a brand new pushbike that at simply 12 years previous fuelled Jock to knock on kitchen doorways in search of a job.

“Jock’s charisma, wicked sense of humour, generosity, passion and love for food and his family cannot be measured.

“He will probably be significantly missed.”

Zonfrillo became one of the youngest culinary students to do an apprenticeship at Scotland’s famed The Turnberry Hotel at just 15, and by 17 he was working alongside Marco Pierre White.

The Scottish presenter joined MasterChef in 2019, hosting alongside chef Melissa Leong and former contestant Andy Allen.

In 2021, he released a memoir titled Last Shot, detailing his years as a heroin addict and his culinary career in London before moving to Australia in 2000.

Former MasterChef contestants and fellow restaurateurs have expressed their shock at Zonfrillo’s sudden death.

Chef Jamie Oliver, who appears in this season of MasterChef Australia, said he is in “complete shock” at the news.

“Jock was very beneficiant to me along with his time and spirit within the present and for that I used to be actually grateful,” he posted.

“I can not consider I’m scripting this … Sending heartfelt love and condolences to all of his household, mates and his second household the GraspChef crew and contestants xxx. Love Jamie.”

“Saddened by the devastating news of Jock Zonfrillo’s passing,” superstar chef Gordon Ramsay said.

“I really loved the time we spent collectively on GraspChef in Australia.

“Sending all my love to Lauren and the family in this difficult time.” 

“Such a shock! Love to his family. Sleep well my friend. I’m floored!” chef Colin Fassnidge wrote.

“I’m so shocked… rest in peace chef, my heart and condolences to loved ones,” Reynold Poer mentioned.

Minoli De Silva shared: “This is actually devastating and my brain doesn’t know how to process this. Such a sad day. Will miss you mate.”

Rock legend Jimmy Barnes described Zonfrillo as “like a brother”.

TV presenter and cook dinner Jane de Graaf mentioned Zonfrillo was a “champion of lovely meals”.

“Such very sad news. Terrible to lose such a champion of beautiful food and a mentor to so many. My thoughts are with his family, friends and colleagues,” she mentioned.

Sign up right here to obtain our each day newsletters and breaking news alerts, despatched straight to your inbox.

Source: www.9news.com.au