MasterChef Australia judge Melissa Leong has spoken out following the tragic death of her friend and colleague Jock Zonfrillo in a thoughtful tribute.
Taking to Instagram the food critic reminisced on her favourite memories of the 46-year-old, who along with Andy Allen replaced the previous MasterChef judges in 2019.
“Four years ago, the three of us stood on a precipice and lept together,” Melissa began.
“I could never have guessed how much of an impact your arrival in my life would have, or that we would be saying goodbye to you so soon. You were always supposed to be the bulletproof one who outlived us all.
“In that time, you showed me what true excellence looks like both in the kitchen and outside of it; your kindness and generosity, the many lives you’ve lived, the way you carried far more on your shoulders than most could ever know.”
MasterChef‘s Melissa Leong struggles to process Jock Zonfrillo’s death
The 41-year-old admitted it would be some time before she could fully process the loss of her “work buddy and friend”.
“Thank you for challenging me daily, for making me better, my work buddy and friend, purveyor of excellent morning coffees, hater of pears, okra and nasturtiums,” she continued.
“This all feels too raw to process still, I suspect it will for some time. Such is the impact of a life lived so large, with so much levity and entirely on your own terms.
“My heart goes out to your family, who were and are your life.
“A wee dram for you today, and always.”
MasterChef Australia judge and chef Andy Allen pens tribute to Jock Zonfrillo
It comes as fellow MasterChef Australia judge Andy shared his own poignant message in the wake of Jock’s death.
In a lengthy Instagram post accompanying a carousel of images, the 35-year-old former MasterChef contestant eloquently put into words the profound impact Jock had on his life and those around him.
The pair were more than just work pals and formed a close relationship with each other’s families including Jock’s wife, Lauren, and kids Alfie, five, and Isla, two, whom he leaves behind.
“When I met you 5 years ago I knew our lives were about to change forever,” Andy began.
“What I didn’t realise is how close Alex [wife Alex Davey] and I would become outside of the kitchen with you, Lauren and your kids. You’ve become such an inspirational and important part of our lives.
“Sure, you’ve taught me so much about food, but it’s the lessons I learnt about what it means to be a great father, husband and friend that I’ll take away from our time together and will last forever.”
Jock’s body was found at a hotel in Melbourne at around 2 am on May 1.
Victoria Police are yet to determine the cause of death but have said it’s not suspicious.
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