Jock Zonfrillo, a host on 10's MasterChef Australia passed away in Melbourne yesterday aged 46.
The Scottish presenter and former chef joined the Channel 10 show in 2019, alongside Melissa Leong and Andy Allen.
He is survived by his wife Lauren Fried and his four children.
The Zonfrillo family released a statement on his sudden passing.
“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.
“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.”
Zonfrillo worked under renowned Michelin-starred chef Marco Pierre White in his early career before establishing himself in Australia as the head chef at Restaurant 41 in Sydney in 2000, going on to open his own Restaurant Orana in 2013.
MasterChef Australia will not air this week.