MasterChef judge Jock Zonfrillo has died, aged 46.

“With completely shattered hearts and without knowing how we can possible move through life without him, we are devastated to share that Jock has passed away,” a statement from his family read.

The Melbourne-based, Scottish-born chef is survived by his wife Lauren Fried and a young family.

“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 family said.

“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.”

The new series of MasterChef was meant to begin on Channel Ten on Monday night. The series has been pulled from broadcast this week.

Zonfrillo was to be joined by food critic and author Melissa Leong, and Three Blue Ducks co-owner and chef Andy Allen as one of three judges in the show’s 15th series.

-more to come