Jock Zonfrillo, MasterChef Australia host, died at the age of 46, his family announced on Monday.
Zonfrillo, a Scottish-Australian father of four who was a judge on the renowned TV cooking competition, was discovered dead in the early hours of Monday by police in Melbourne.
“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,” his family said in a statement on social media.
“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.”
Although no cause of death was given, Victoria state police stated that the death was not considered suspicious.
The police department stated that they were compiling a report for the coroner.
Network 10 and Endemol Shine Australia, which broadcast MasterChef Australia, stated they were “deeply shocked” by his sudden passing.
“Talented and with plenty of grit”, Zonfrillo — born in Glasgow to an Italian father and a Scottish mother — was heavily influenced by his parents’ cultures, they said.
“Jock’s charisma, wicked sense of humour, generosity, passion and love for food and his family cannot be measured. He will be greatly missed.”
Scottish-born Australian rock star Jimmy Barnes said on social media he had lost a “dear friend”.
“Jock was like a brother to me and we made each other laugh and cry. My heart goes out to his family.”
Following Zonfrillo’s death, MasterChef will not air this week.
