MasterChef Australia judge Jock Zonfrillo dies at 46

Zonfrillo's family confirmed his death on Monday, calling him "our irreplaceable husband, father, brother, son and friend" in a statement, according to The Guardian.

The Victoria Police said the cause of death was not known yet but it was not being treated as suspicious.

The police also said that a report on Zonfrillo's death will be prepared by the coroner's office.

MasterChef Australia's new season was cancelled after the death of Zonfrillo, Network 10 confirmed to The Guardian.

"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," the chef's 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," the statement further said.

Zonfrillo is survived by his wife and four children.

Born in Glasgow, Zonfrillo started working in kitchens as a dishwasher part-time at the age of 13, while still at school. He left school aged 15 and started an apprenticeship in the kitchens of The Turnberry Hotel after which he worked at the Arkle Restaurant in Chester.

He then worked for Marco Pierre White before travelling to Australia for 12 months to work at Restaurant 41 in Sydney.

On returning to the UK, Zonfrillo was appointed to his first head chef position aged 22 at The Tresanton Hotel in Cornwall.

Zonfrillo returned to Australia in 2000, becoming head chef of Restaurant 41.

In 2011, Zonfrillo was named head chef at Penfolds Magill Estate Restaurant in South Australia but left after 18 months.