MasterChef Australia is returning to screens after the shock death of judge and renowned chef Jock Zonfrillo.
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Network 10 revealed the cooking show would air "with the full support of Jock Zonfrillo's family" on May 7, a week after the 46-year-old was found dead in Melbourne.
"Jock Zonfrillo took great pride in challenging and coaching the contestants and of course inspiring a nation of home cooks," the statement said.
"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."
Before the episode a special edition of The Sunday Project will pay tribute to Mr Zonfrillo, "reflecting on his personal and professional life in a celebration of his incredible achievements".
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The new season of MasterChef was set to premiere in the evening on May 1, but was postponed after news broke of Mr Zonfrillo's passing.
Mr Zonfrillo and fellow judges Melissa Leong and Andy Allen took over from Gary Mehigan, George Calombaris and Matt Preston in 2019.
Ms Leong remembered her "work buddy and friend, purveyor of excellent morning coffees, hater of pears, okra and nasturtiums", in a post on Instagram.
"Four years ago, the three of us stood on a precipice and leapt together," she said.
"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.
"A wee dram for you today, and always."
Mr Allen also paid tribute on Instagram saying Mr Zonfrillo had "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.
"Thanks for making me constantly laugh and being there when I needed to cry. You really were the complete package mate and life will never be the same without you."
