MasterChef star Jock Zonfrillo found dead by police

The body of MasterChef star Jock Zonfrillo was discovered by police at 2 a.m. on Monday at a hotel on one of Melbourne’s most famous streets.

Zonfrillo died in Melbourne in the early hours of Monday morning at age 46.

He is survived by his wife Lauren and four children Ava, Sophie, Alfie and Isla.

Police were sent to a hotel on Melbourne’s Lygon Street, famous for its restaurants and bars, to perform a welfare check before they made the discovery.

Officers said they will make a report for the coroner after Zonfrillo’s death in Carlton.

“Police attended a Lygon Street address for a welfare check and located a man deceased about 2 a.m. on May 1,” a Victoria Police spokesperson said.

“The 46-year-old man’s death is not being treated as suspicious.”

His family announced the sudden death in a statement on Monday afternoon.

“With completely shattered hearts and without knowing how we can possibly move through life without him, we are devastated to share that Jock passed away yesterday,” his family said in a statement.

“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.”

“We implore you to please let us grieve privately as we find a way to navigate through this and find space on the other side to celebrate our irreplaceable husband, father, brother, son and friend.”

Tributes have poured in from all over the world for the late chef.

“I’m in total shock to wake up to the sudden death of chef Jock Zonfrillo. We had the best time working together for this years master chef, I can’t tell how good it was to work with him!” Jamie Oliver said on Instagram.

“Jock was very generous to me with his time and spirit in the show and for that I was really grateful…Mellisa, Andy & Jock work as the most inspiring judges and mentors and each have there very own unique view and style…Jock will be so very missed…I can’t believe I’m writing this…”

“Saddened by the devastating news of Jock Zonfrillo‘s passing. I truly enjoyed the time we spent together on MasterChef in Australia,” Gordon Ramsay said on Twitter.

“My deepest condolences and sincere thoughts. I am utterly devastated. We spoke recently,” celebrity chef Joey Vargetto said.

Contestants on the show who spent considerable time with Zonfrillo also expressed their sadness at the loss.

“I’m so shocked… rest in peace chef, my heart and condolences to loved ones,” MasterChef contestant Reynold Poernomo said on Instagram.

“So sad to hear this. Rest in peace Jock. You will be missed,” fellow contestant Brendan Pang said.