Jamie Oliver tipped to replace Jock Zonfrillo on MasterChef
Five months after the untimely death of MasterChef judge Jock Zonfrillo, rumours of his replacement for the new season of the show are beginning to emerge.
According to a Channel 10 insider, British celebrity chef Jamie Oliver has reportedly signed a $2 million deal to take over the hosting role for the next season.
In reports to Women's Day, Oliver will be taking over the show for the new season, which is set to begin filming in November, but has not yet agreed to take over Zonfrillo's role permanently.
"Jamie has inked a deal worth around $2million," the source told Women's Day in the latest issue.
The publication went on to say the contract with the best-selling cook book author includes a trip home to the UK for Christmas as well as an accommodation allowance for his family when they visit in January.
When Jock Zonfrillo's untimely death made headlines in April, Jamie Oliver was one of the first celebrity chefs to share their condolences.
"I'm in total shock to wake up to the sudden death of chef Jock Zonfrillo," he wrote on Instagram.
"We had the best time working together for this years MasterChef, I can't tell how good it was to work with him!"
"Jock was very generous to me with his time and spirit in the show and for that I was really grateful… Melisa, Andy & Jock work as the most inspiring judges and mentors and each have there very own unique view and style… Jock will be so very missed…"
He added, "I can't believe I'm writing this…….Sending heart felt love and condolences to all of his family, friends and his second family the master chef team and contestants xxx. Love Jamie."
Image credits: Getty Images / Ten