Date MasterChef will return to TV is revealed by Channel 10 after the death of Jock Zonfrillo – as his family give their blessing to air new series
Channel 10 has revealed the premiere date for the new season of MasterChef Australia following the tragic death of judge Jock Zonifrillo.
Season 15 of the show had been due to launch last Monday, but it was pushed back after the Scottish chef, who was appointed a judge on the cooking show in late 2019, was was found dead by police at a Melbourne hotel at about 2am on Monday.
The series will now premiere this Sunday, May 7, at 7.30pm.
Channel 10 said in a statement: ‘With the full support of Jock Zonfrillo’s family, MasterChef Australia will air at 7.30pm on Sunday, 7 May.
‘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. Jock will be remembered in the MasterChef Australia kitchen for years to come.’
Channel 10 has revealed the premiere date for the new season of MasterChef Australia following the tragic death of judge Jock Zonifrillo
The network added that a special edition of The Sunday Project will pay tribute to Jock from 6.30pm on Sunday before the new series airs.
It said: ‘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.’
Production wrapped on the 62-episode season at MasterChef HQ in Flemington, Melbourne, last month.
Channel 10 released a statement to its Instagram page that the new series will air this Sunday
The new season reportedly cost ‘millions’ to make, and producers are now looking to add a special ‘tribute’ episode to Zonfrillo before confirming his replacement.
Zonfrillo filmed season 15 alongside fellow judges Melissa Leong and Andy Allen, who both pulled out of their scheduled media interviews after his sudden death.