MasterChef 2024: Jock Zonfrillo's wife shares heartfelt message to new judges

Jock Zonfrillo's wife Lauren Fried has shared a heartfelt post congratulating Andy Allen and the new MasterChef judges after the announcement of the new-look 2024 season.

Earlier this week it was announced that Melissa Leong would not be returning to the show, with Andy to instead be joined by season one runner-up Poh Ling Yeow, food critic and journalist Sofia Levin, and multi–Michelin Star award-winning chef, Jean-Christophe Novelli.

Lauren took to Jock's Instagram account to announce her happiness at the news, paying tribute to Andy and his close relationship with Jock.

'You have my absolute support'

"This would make Jock immensely happy - @andyallencooks unexpectedly came into our life 4 years ago. He quickly became a best mate to Jock, shared a passion for food and fun, and was someone who cared deeply for our family," Lauren wrote.

Lauren also shared her gratitude for Any filming a segment for Jock's tribute show not long after his death.

"Andy walked back into the MasterChef Kitchen to film his segment for Jock’s tribute show 7 months ago, literally only hours after I called him to tell him the news. He did that for Ava and I, for Jock, and as a gift for our little ones to watch in the future. I see now that it was an enormous, and possibly unfair, request I made of him. He did it without hesitation," she said.

Lauren then gave a shout-out to the new judges, though there was no mention of Melissa Leong's exit.

"To @pohlingyeow @sofiaklevin @jeanchristophe_novelli - you already know how amazing MasterChef is, but you are yet to realise the legend that is your new mate in Andy and the crew who are the best in the business.

You all have my absolute support - all I ask is that you continue to take the piss out of Andy, make him coffees that are so strong he walks onto set shaking, take him for a round of golf to let off some steam, and that you beat him in any cook-offs," she said.

'Lost for words'

Andy replied to the heartfelt message, clearly touched.

"Lost for words. Would do anything for you and the family," he said.

Jock's daughter Ava also commented, sharing her love for Andy. "We love you @andyallencooks. Excited to keep watching you in this next chapter of MC. Go team," she wrote.

Celebrity chef Jamie Oliver also weighed in. "Such amazing words, very emotional and yes @andyallencooks is the best of the best, good luck to all, J xx."

And new judge Poh, thanked Lauren for her generosity. "Thank you Loz for your stoicism and generosity," she wrote.

Never miss a thing. Sign up to Yahoo Lifestyle’s daily newsletter.

Or if you have a story idea, email us at lifestyle.tips@yahooinc.com.