MasterChef fans 'heartbroken' after surprising tribute to Jock Zonfrillo: 'Wasn't expecting that'

MasterChef Australia fans were left "heartbroken" on Wednesday night after Andy Allen shared a surprising tribute to his late friend and MasterChef judge, Jock Zonfrillo, who died last year before the 2023 series premiered. Speaking to the contestants about their food heroes, Andy said, "When you first applied to be part of this competition, you named someone that you considered to be your food hero.

"And all of you, you named a family member," he said, adding, "For me, although I loved growing up on pine burgers, unfortunately it's not my mother, but it's our late, great mate, Jock."

RELATED:

• MasterChef fans left 'gutted' by elimination: 'Deserved to stay'

• Surprising star MasterChef viewers want as judge in 2025: 'My first choice'

• MasterChef fans go wild over surprising challenge moment: 'Worst nightmare'

As tears began flowing in the MasterChef kitchen, Andy continued, saying, "The time that we spent cooking in this kitchen and creating an energy where people like you could just reach for the stars and succeed with everything you do – I learnt so much about that from Jock.

"And he taught me so much more, probably, about being a good husband, being a good son, and hopefully one day, me being a good dad. So, I miss him a lot."

'Wasn't expecting that'

Fans shared their heartbreak on Instagram, with one user writing, "Wasn’t expecting that ❤️💔 Never heard a more honest word spoken xxox."

"Jock. Fondly remembered," another said, while a third added, "Most heartbroken moment this season 😢❤️."

"Oh Andy we miss Jock too. He had such a big presence ❤️," someone else said.

"Jock is truly missed but love to see Andy stepping up and being his own leader for the show... ❤️," another wrote.

SHOP:

• The 'amazing' shakes that help with weight loss, skin and hair health: 'I'm down two dress sizes'

• The nutritious and dairy-free snack option perfect for fussy eaters

• The debate over whether pickles belong in burgers has finally been resolved

"Never thought I would like this season without Jock. But they all did a brilliant job. Beautiful tribute to @zonfrillo . Cheers to Andy," one person said.

"Talking about Jock brought tears to my eyes," an emotional viewer added.

Jock was found dead at a hotel in Melbourne in May last year, the same day the 2023 season was set to premiere. He is survived by his wife, Lauren, and his four children, Ava, Sophie, Alfie, and Isla.

Want the latest celebrity news? Follow us on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok.