"I ran straight to the bathroom" — Masterchef Australia judge Andy Allen gets emotional recalling Jock Zonfrillo’s death

Andy Allen and Jock Zonfrillo - Judges of Masterchef Australia | Image via Instagram/ @andyallencooks
Andy Allen and Jock Zonfrillo - Judges of Masterchef Australia | Image via Instagram/ @andyallencooks

On the second death anniversary of Jock Zonfrillo, MasterChef Australia judge, Andy Allen, spoke candidly about the heartbreaking moment he learned of the passing of his close friend and fellow judge. Andy described the precise moment, a phone call that would rock his world, in an emotional interview. The news of Zonfrillo's death struck Andy more deeply than he could have predicted because the two had a strong friendship that extended beyond the show.

"As soon as I got off the phone, I ran straight to the bathroom and I vomited everywhere," Andy said, revealing just how physically overwhelming the grief was when he first heard the tragic news.

His immediate, honest, and tragic response was evidence of the close friendship the two had developed over the years.

Following Jock's untimely death in 2023, both friends and admirers have mourneed the passing of the vivacious chef who infused the MasterChef kitchen with comedy, compassion, and genuineness. For Andy, losing a brother in arms was more significant than simply losing a coworker. What Jock meant to everyone around him, especially those who shared the screen and life with him, has gained emotional depth thanks to his latest reflections.


Masterchef Australia judge Andy Allen gets emotional on the 2nd death anniversary of his co-star Jock Zorfrillo

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Andy Allen, Jock Zonfrillo's co-star and close friend, is still clearly devastated two years after the unexpected death of his beloved MasterChef Australia judge. The loss that still influences Andy's life was discussed in a heartfelt Instagram tribute and an emotional sit-down interview. The grief is still very much a part of his everyday life, even though it is not as obvious.

"That's the thing that hurts the most," Michelin star chef said as he got emotional, "cause it was so sudden."

Everyone was shocked by Jock's death, but Andy was particularly affected because they had a close bond with him both on and off screen. Time has passed, but the memories still trouble him.

"I always think of him. And I miss him, I miss him so much. It's crazy that that never goes, "he remarked.

Andy said that whether he's filming the new season of Masterchef Australia, cooking, or just going about his day, there are always reminders of Jock.

"That being reminded of him wherever I go and no matter what I do, it is still as strong as the day that he passed two years ago."

Andy also posted a moving remembrance of Jock on Instagram to commemorate the second anniversary of his passing. A candid photo of the two cooks was included in the post, along with a heartfelt message.

"2 years since we lost the great man @zonfrillo. I miss him more than ever," Masterchef Australia panelist wrote.

The connection hasn't diminished for Andy; rather, it has grown into an enduring legacy of love and remembering.


Fans can watch the all-new season 17 of MasterChef Australia on Channel 10 AU.

Edited by Zainab Shaikh