MasterChef Australia to air new series after death of Glasgow-born judge Jock Zonfrillo

The new season of MasterChef Australia is set to air on Sunday following the death of Glasgow-born judge, Jock Zonfrillo.

Programme bosses confirmed the show would go ahead with “full support” from the 46-year-old’s family.

News of the chef’s death was shared on Monday after Victoria Police found his body at an address in the Melbourne suburb of Carlton.

Zonfrillo had presented MasterChef since 2019 with new series due to air on Monday night.

Network 10 and the programme producers Endemol Shine Australia confirmed the show would not broadcast.

British chef Jamie Oliver, who is a guest judge on the show, was among those to pay tribute to Zonfrillo.

He said: “Jock will be so very missed. I can’t believe I’m writing this. Sending heart felt love and condolences to all of his family, friends and his second family the MasterChef team and contestants.”

In a statement on Wednesday, the official MasterChef Australia Twitter account said: “With the full support of Jock Zonfrillo’s family, MasterChef Australia will air at 7.30pm on Sunday, May 7.

“MasterChef Australia Judge Jock Zonfrillo took great pride in challenging and coaching the contestants and of course inspiring a nation of home cooks.

“It is with Jock in our hearts that we cherish this season and remember the charismatic and big-hearted Judge and Chef who we knew and loved. Jock will be remembered in the MasterChef Australia kitchen for years to come.

“A special edition of The Sunday Project will pay tribute to Jock from 6.30pm on Sunday May 7. With contributions from friends, he held closely, the show will honour Jock by reflecting on his personal and professional life in a celebration of his incredible achievements.”