TV chef Gino D'Acampo denies inappropriate behaviour claims

Celebrity chef Gino D'Acampo has denied multiple allegations of inappropriate and intimidating behavior on television show sets. These allegations stem from an investigative report published by ITV News.

According to ITV News, they interviewed "dozens" of individuals who accused D'Acampo of making "unacceptable," "distressing," and "utterly appalling" comments. These anonymous accusers stated they had worked with D'Acampo on television productions and alleged aggressive behavior, abusive language during outbursts on set, and sexually suggestive language. BBC News has not communicated with these accusers nor verified their claims.

D'Acampo, through his legal team, issued a statement to ITV News "strongly denying" the "deeply troubling" allegations. He stated that the allegations dated back more than a decade and that he had "never been informed of these matters previously." D'Acampo added that he is a father and husband who has worked with over 1,500 people on approximately 80 shows throughout his career, of which he is very proud, and he takes the matter seriously, finding the suggestion of his misconduct "deeply upsetting."

ITV stated in a statement that production companies "have primary responsibility for the duty of care towards everyone they work with." The broadcaster said that in the past five years, it has "strengthened" policies regarding the standards it expects production companies it works with to meet. "The concerns and complaints raised by everyone spoken to by ITN described behaviours that were inappropriate and unacceptable. The majority of these were not reported to ITV at the time. Where ITV was made aware of issues, action was taken."

D'Acampo, 48, has been a regular fixture on British television since the early 2000s. He has primarily worked for ITV, including involvement in several cooking and travel shows, as well as appearances on other entertainment programs. The Italian-born chef and broadcaster has also appeared on BBC programs.