MasterChef host and award-winning chef Jock Zonfrillo has died suddenly. He was 46 years old.

In a statement issued jointly with Network Ten and production company Endemol Shine, the Zonfrillo family revealed the Glasgow-born chef had died on Sunday.

“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.”

Network Ten and Endemol, which hired Zonfrillo in late 2019 as one of the three new hosts of its flagship cooking show after original hosts Matt Preston, George Calombaris and Gary Mehigan departed, said they were “deeply shocked and saddened” at the “sudden loss” of the chef-turned TV presenter.

More to come