In the early hours of Monday morning, Oliver, 47, beamed from ear to ear while posing next to Zonfrillo, shortly before his family confirmed he’d died aged 46.
Zonfrillo, a chef and author, died on Sunday in Melbourne.
Fans were quick to point out just how tragic the image now seemed in the comment section below Oliver’s post, which was shared to promote the fact he’d be appearing on MasterChef Australia this week.
In the wake of Zonfrillo’s death, the programme has since announced it won’t air this week.
Oliver’s post was captioned: ‘Just hanging out with my new buds @zonfrillo, @andyallencooks and @fooderati on the set of @masterchefau!
‘So excited for you all to see the first episode of Masterchef Australia ! Aussie friends, its on TONIGHT at 7:30pm on @channel10au !! Yours truly is in it and there’s some pretty amazing dishes I get to taste!’
Social media users were quick to revisit Oliver’s photo in the wake of Zonfrillo’s passing, with one person saying: ‘i swear i just saw this post then next thing, theres sad news.’ [sic]
Another added: ‘This picture hits differently now.’
Other messages included: ‘Sad news to endure after this wonderful photo’ and ‘This breaks my heart seeing this now. Such a happy photo. Much shock.’
On Monday, Zonfrillo’s family confirmed: ‘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.’
They added: ‘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.’
Soon after the news broke, MasterChef Australia announced it would not air this week.
A spokesperson for the channel tweeted: ‘Network 10 and Endemol Shine Australia are deeply shocked and saddened at the sudden loss of Jock Zonfrillo, a beloved member of the MasterChef Australia family.
‘Jock passed away in Melbourne yesterday. MasterChef Australia will not air this week.’
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