Jock Zonfrillo, the award-winning chef and host of MasterChef Australia, died suddenly at the age of 46 on May 1, 2023. The Scottish-born chef was found dead in his hotel room in Melbourne, where he had returned to film the new season of the popular cooking show. His death shocked and saddened his fans, colleagues, and family, who described him as a charismatic, passionate, and talented person.
But what was the cause of Jock Zonfrillo’s death? How did he cope with his health issues and personal demons? And what legacy did he leave behind in the culinary world? Here are some facts and insights about the life and death of Jock Zonfrillo.
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A Secret Struggle with Bowel Cancer
According to Metro, Jock Zonfrillo had been secretly battling bowel cancer for years. A source told the outlet that he kept his diagnosis from most of his friends and co-workers, and only received treatment when MasterChef was not filming. It is not clear when he was diagnosed or how advanced his condition was, but bowel cancer is one of the most common and deadly types of cancer in Australia.
Bowel cancer, also known as colorectal cancer, affects the large intestine and rectum. It can cause symptoms such as bleeding from the rectum, changes in bowel habits, abdominal pain, weight loss, and fatigue. If detected early, bowel cancer can be treated with surgery, chemotherapy, or radiation therapy. However, if it spreads to other organs, it can be fatal.
It is not known if bowel cancer was the direct cause of Jock Zonfrillo’s death, but it may have contributed to his deteriorating health. The official cause of death will be determined by the coroner after an autopsy.
A Turbulent Past and a New Beginning
Jock Zonfrillo had a turbulent past that he candidly shared in his 2021 memoir, Last Shot. He revealed that he started working in kitchens at the age of 12, and became one of the youngest apprentices to work for Michelin-starred chef Marco Pierre White at the Hyde Park Hotel in London. However, he also became addicted to heroin and cocaine in his teenage years, and ended up homeless and broke.
He said he turned his life around after moving to Australia in 2000, where he found love and success. He married his wife Lauren Fried in 2014, and they had two children together: Alfie, six, and Ava, two. He also had two older children from previous relationships: Isla, 22, and Finn, 18.
He opened several restaurants in Australia, including Restaurant Orana in Adelaide, which won multiple awards for its innovative cuisine that showcased indigenous ingredients and culture. He also became a host of MasterChef Australia in 2019, alongside Melissa Leong and Andy Allen. He was known for his charisma, passion, and wicked sense of humor on the show.
A Legacy of Inspiration and Innovation
Jock Zonfrillo left a lasting impact on the culinary world with his vision and creativity. He was passionate about exploring and celebrating the diversity and richness of Australian food culture, especially the indigenous heritage. He founded The Orana Foundation in 2016, a non-profit organization that aimed to preserve and promote indigenous food knowledge and practices.
He also inspired many aspiring chefs and home cooks with his skills and personality on MasterChef Australia. He was a mentor, a friend, and a role model to many contestants and viewers. He often shared his personal stories and struggles on the show, as well as his love for his family.
Jock Zonfrillo’s family said in a statement that they were devastated by his death, but grateful for the support they received from the public. They also said they supported Network 10’s decision to air the new season of MasterChef Australia as planned, as a tribute to Jock’s work.
They asked people to keep Jock in their hearts when they have their next whisky, as he was a proud Scot who loved a good drink. They also requested privacy and respect during this difficult time.
