MasterChef Australia’s judge Jock Zonfrillo died on May 1 leaving everyone shocked. The 15th season of the show, which was postponed because of his sudden death, will now premiere on May 7. 


In a statement on the show's official Twitter page, Australian channel Network 10 on Wednesday said his family members have given their blessing to go ahead with the new season which was filmed before Zonfrillo's death on May 1. 


"With the full support of Jock Zonfrillo's family, MasterChef Australia will air at 7.30 pm on Sunday, 7 May. MasterChef Australia Judge Jock Zonfrillo took great pride in challenging and coaching the contestants and of course inspiring a nation of home cooks. 


"It is with Jock in our hearts that we cherish this season and remember the charismatic and big-hearted Judge and Chef who we knew and loved. Jock will be remembered in the MasterChef Australia kitchen for years to come," the channel said in the statement. 




"With contributions from friends, he held closely, the show will honour Jock by reflecting on his personal and professional life in a celebration of his incredible achievements," the statement read. 


Zonfrillo became a judge on 'MasterChef Australia' in 2019 along with Melissa Leong and Andy Allen, stepping in for the long-running cookery competition show's original hosts Matt Preston, George Calombaris and Gary Mehigan.  


On May 1, in a statement shared on his official Instagram account, Zonfrillo's family said the Scottish restaurateur died in Melbourne 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,” the family said in the statement. 




“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,” they added. 


Zonfrillo is survived by his third wife, Lauren Fried, and his four children.