MasterChef Australia: Secrets and Surprises was set to premiere on May 1. In the wake of judge Jock Zonfrillo’s shock death, Network Ten pulled MasterChef Australia from its lineup. Instead, they aired the Paramount+ reality series The Bridge Australia.
Ten confirmed that MasterChef Australia 2023 would not premiere this week.
Now, with the full support of Jock Zonfrillo’s family, the network has confirmed MasterChef Australia‘s new premiere date.
The beloved cooking competition series will now premiere at 7.30pm on Sunday, 7 May.
Network Ten, Zonfrillo’s family, and MasterChef’s production company, Endemol Shine, confirmed the news. In a statement on May 1, they said: “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 statement implored fans to let everyone close to the chef “grieve privately” as they reckon with the loss.
The statement noted that they intended to “celebrate our irreplaceable husband, father, brother, son, and friend” in due course. Now, the network has announced plans to air a Jock Zonfrillo tribute on the upcoming episode of The Sunday Project.
Jock Zonfrillo’s Time on MasterChef Australia
In an additional statement, MasterChef Australia went through some details about the life of Zonfrillo and what he meant to this series.
“In 2019, Jock was named as a judge on MasterChef Australia, in which he took great pride in challenging and coaching the contestants and, of course, inspiring a nation of home cooks,” said the network.
“Jock’s charisma, wicked sense of humour, generosity, passion, and love for food and his family cannot be measured. He will be greatly missed.”
Is MasterChef Australia on Tonight?
Masterchef Australia isn’t on tonight, but it will premiere on Sunday, May 7.
Before MasterChef Australia premieres, The Sunday Project will air a tribute dedicated to Jock Zonfrillo.
“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,” Network 10 said in a statement.
The tribute episode of The Sunday Project and will air from 6.30pm on Sunday, May 6, only on 10 and 10 Play on Demand.
Related: MasterChef 2023 — Contestant Instagram Accounts
Related: What to Expect from the New Season of MasterChef
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