From a troubled past to MasterChef Judge: Jock Zonfrillo's incredible life story

MasterChef judge Jock Zonfrillo dies 46

MasterChef Australia judge and celebrity chef Jock Zonfrillo passed away at 46, on Sunday. Before the debut of the initial episode of MasterChef Australia, Zonfrillo, along with his co-judges Jamie Oliver, Andy Allen and Melissa Leong, had taken a selfie that went viral after his death. Credit: Jock Zonfrillo

Drug addict turns top chef

Zonfrillo had a difficult teenage life, marked by drug addiction and expulsion from school, but he turned to cooking to cope, and found his passion. He later became a judge on MasterChef Australia and gained popularity for his unique culinary style. Credit: Jock Zonfrillo

Young chef journey

Zonfrillo started his career in the kitchen at 16 and has worked at several renowned restaurants in the UK, Australia, and Singapore. Credit: Jock Zonfrillo

Chef Zonfrillo's first restaurant

In 2000, he moved to Australia and opened his first restaurant, Bistro Dom, in Adelaide, which became highly acclaimed and awarded a chef's hat by the Good Food Guide. Credit: Jock Zonfrillo

Zonfrillo's award-winning restaurant

He later opened other successful restaurants, including Restaurant Orana, which was awarded Australia's Restaurant of the Year in 2018. Credit: Jock Zonfrillo

Celebrated indigenous cuisine

Zonfrillo was known for his passion for using native Australian ingredients in his dishes and promoting the country's indigenous culture and cuisine. Credit: Jock Zonfrillo

Recognition & awards

He won several awards throughout his career, including the Chef of the Year Award at the 2011 South Australian Food Industry Awards. Credit: Jock Zonfrillo

Fan favorite

Zonfrillo joined the MasterChef Australia judging panel in 2018 and quickly became a fan favourite for his honesty, wit, and culinary expertise. Credit: Jock Zonfrillo

Culinary legacy ends

He married his wife, Lauren Fried, and they had three children together. Zonfrillo passed away on Sunday, leaving behind a legacy in the Australian culinary scene. Credit: Jock Zonfrillo