Jock Zonfrillo’s replacement options on MasterChef Australia revealed after celebrity chef’s shock death
Channel Ten is on the hunt for a new celebrity judge for MasterChef Australia 2024 following the shock death of series veteran Jock Zonfrillo on April 30.
And several world-famous chefs are said to be in the running.
‘International names such as Jamie Oliver, Nigella Lawson and Shannon Bennett have all been thrown around,’ an insider told Woman’s Day.
However, the source added these culinary experts all have hectic schedules so booking them for the competitive cooking show was currently ‘a pipe dream’.
The network is also reported to be considering bringing back ‘heritage’ names to the series, such as original judges George Calombaris and Gary Mehigan, to attract older viewers.
Channel Ten is on the hunt for a new celebrity judge for MasterChef Australia 2024 following the shock death of series veteran Jock Zonfrillo on April 30
Another expert being considered is renowned pastry chef Amaury Guichon, who is set to appear on the MasterChef spin off Dessert Masters, alongside judge Melissa Leong, later this year.
It comes amid rumours celebrity chef’s Melissa Leong and Andy Allen may move forward without a permanent third, as the Herald Sun reported on Saturday.
The publications claimed the cooking duo may instead go into the next season alongside a rotating roster of guest judges.
‘International names such as Jamie Oliver, Nigella Lawson and Shannon Bennett have all been thrown around,’ an insider told Woman’s Day
While filming dates for season 16 haven’t been set, Channel Ten has asked aspiring chefs to submit their applications before August 16.
Meanwhile, others have suggested Melissa, 41, and Andy, 35, may be planning to quit MasterChef as they continue to grapple with the tragic death of their co-star.
Some fans are convinced the entire hosting panel may be replaced altogether, after Channel 10 refused to confirm Jock’s replacement in the recent casting call.
The network is also reported to be considering bringing back ‘heritage’ names to the series, such as original judges George Calombaris (right) and Gary Mehigan (left), to attract older viewers
Jock died in Melbourne on what was supposed to be the premiere date of the latest MasterChef series, which was delayed by a week following his passing.
The 46-year-old Scottish-born chef was found dead in his Carlton hotel room.
Police found his body after they were called to his room for a welfare check.
It comes amid rumours celebrity chef’s Melissa Leong and Andy Allen may move forward without a permanent third, as the Herald Sun reported on Saturday
