The Australian culinary community, along with family and friends of Jock Zonfrillo, gathered for an intimate funeral in Sydney to mourn the sudden passing of the award-winning chef and TV personality.
Remembering Jock Zonfrillo’s Legacy
Jock Zonfrillo, the 46-year-old MasterChef Australia co-host, passed away suddenly in a Melbourne hotel room on May 1, leaving behind a wife and four children. Zonfrillo, who was born in Glasgow to an Italian father and Scottish mother, moved to Australia over two decades ago and worked in some of the world’s top kitchens, including Marco Pierre White’s restaurant in London. Zonfrillo won the prestigious Basque Culinary World Prize in 2018.
A Tribute from Celebrity Chefs and Co-Hosts
Zonfrillo’s death has sent shockwaves throughout the Australian TV industry and global celebrity chefs. His co-host, Andy Allen, mourned the loss of an “inspirational and important part” of his life and expressed his gratitude for Zonfrillo’s support. Chefs Jamie Oliver and Gordon Ramsay, who both worked with Zonfrillo on MasterChef, shared fond memories of their time with the late chef. Zonfrillo’s family, including his wife Lauren, paid a heartfelt tribute to the chef and thanked the public for their outpouring of support.
A Farewell to a Beloved Brother and Friend
At the service, singer Jimmy Barnes performed Amazing Grace, and Zonfrillo’s coffin was carried out of the building by his wife, Lauren, and MasterChef co-host Andy Allen. The service was attended by celebrity chefs George Calombaris, Manu Feildel, and Colin Fassnidge, who was visibly upset. Jock Zonfrillo was remembered as a passionate, talented, and generous chef who will be deeply missed by his loved ones and the culinary community.
The latest series of MasterChef, filmed before Zonfrillo’s death, premiered six days after his passing.
Frequently Asked Questions
-
Who was Jock Zonfrillo?
Jock Zonfrillo was an award-winning Scottish-Australian chef and TV personality known for his innovative approach to cooking and his work in championing indigenous Australian ingredients and culture. -
What were Jock Zonfrillo’s notable achievements in the culinary industry?
Jock Zonfrillo won the prestigious Basque Culinary World Prize in 2018 and was recognized for his contribution to the culinary industry in Australia and beyond. He opened two highly acclaimed restaurants in Adelaide, Bistro Blackwood and Orana, and was a judge on MasterChef Australia from 2019 until his sudden death in 2021. -
Who attended Jock Zonfrillo’s funeral?
Jock Zonfrillo’s funeral was attended by family, friends, and several celebrity chefs including George Calombaris, Manu Feildel, and Colin Fassnidge. Singer Jimmy Barnes, who considered Zonfrillo “like a brother”, performed at the service along with daughter Mahalia Barnes. Zonfrillo’s wife Lauren and MasterChef co-host Andy Allen carried his coffin out of the building. -
What was the cause of Jock Zonfrillo’s death?
Jock Zonfrillo passed away suddenly in a Melbourne hotel room on May 1, 2021. His death was not treated as suspicious, but the exact cause has not been publicly disclosed.
