Jock Zonfrillo Daughter Ava Zonfrillo Mourns Tragic Loss of Celebrity Chef: In a heartwrenching tribute to her late father, Jock Zonfrillo, Ava Zonfrillo, the eldest daughter of the renowned celebrity chef, broke her silence on his passing. Sharing her grief with the world, 22-year-old Ava took to Instagram to express her emotions and pay homage to her beloved father.
Three weeks after his untimely demise, she shared a poignant memory of their time together, emphasizing that their love for him will remain unwavering despite his absence. The Instagram post comprised a collection of eight photos and two videos, spanning from Ava’s childhood to more recent moments captured with her father.
Ava Zonfrillo – Following in Her Father’s Footsteps
Ava Zonfrillo, daughter of Jock Zonfrillo and his first wife, Amanda Ewing, initially pursued a path aligned with her father’s culinary legacy. She delved into the world of hospitality and public relations, mirroring her father’s passion.
However, Ava eventually found her calling in the fashion industry and currently works for the communication agency, AMPR. After graduating from the University of Technology Sydney in 2019, the 22-year-old has since resided in the vibrant Bondi Beach neighborhood of Sydney.
Outpouring of Support
Ava’s heartfelt tribute resonated with people across the globe, drawing an outpouring of support and condolences from friends, family, and well-known figures.
Prominent personalities such as Australian designer Collette Dinnigan, fellow chef Alex Pritchard, model Rebecca Harding, and former Masterchef contestants Laura Sharrad and Simon Toohey all expressed their sympathies in response to Ava’s Instagram post.
Farewell to Jock Zonfrillo
A week before Ava’s touching tribute, Jock Zonfrillo was laid to rest in a private funeral attended by 200 family members and close friends in Sydney. Among the pallbearers were Jock’s wife Lauren and his co-host Andy Allen, while numerous influential figures from the Australian scene paid their respects.
Authorities initially suspected that Jock’s passing resulted from natural causes, and the official cause of death will be determined by the Coroner. The tragedy occurred shortly after Jock’s return to Australia from Italy, where he had relocated with his third wife, Lauren, and their young children, Alfie and Isla.
MasterChef Australia and Jock’s Journey
Jock Zonfrillo’s professional journey reached its apex as the host of MasterChef Australia in 2019, following years of establishing himself as a renowned chef in the country. His move to Australia in 2000 marked a turning point in his life, as he overcame a tumultuous past, including battles with heroin addiction that left him broke and homeless during his teenage years.
In his 2021 memoir, “Last Shot,” Jock candidly shared his struggles, inviting readers into his transformative experience. Throughout his career, he achieved considerable success, particularly with the award-winning Restaurant Orana in Adelaide, which opened its doors in 2013. However, in 2020, Orana closed its doors, leaving Jock with substantial debts.
Reflecting on a Life of Passion
Jock Zonfrillo’s untimely passing has left a void in the culinary world and the hearts of those who admired him. As Ava Zonfrillo mourns the loss of her beloved father, the memory of Jock’s passion for cooking and his contributions to the Australian food industry will continue to inspire aspiring chefs and food enthusiasts alike.
His journey from a troubled youth to an esteemed chef serves as a testament to the power of resilience and determination. The legacy he leaves behind will forever be cherished, and his impact will be felt for years to come.
