Gino D’Acampo is currently under investigation following claims of misconduct, and staffers claim he ‘upset people he worked with’ before the MasterChef scandal gave ITV a wake up call
ITV insiders have claimed that Gino D’Acampo was able to do whatever he pleased on set, amid claims of sexual misconduct by “dozens” of people emerged.
The broadcaster currently has an investigation into the allegations underway, with the celebrity chef accused of inappropriate behaviour dating back over 12 years. Gino has “firmly denied” the allegations, which describe his behaviour as “unacceptable”, “distressing” and “horrendous.”
One person likened the situation to the major fallout seen after the actions of both Gregg Wallace and Phillip Schofield, both of whom caused a national uproar and lots of problems for the shows they fronted. They have claimed that Gino, 48, is “in a lot of trouble,” and the ITV are “covering all their bases” in an effort to avoid bigger problems down the line. Summarising her take on the claims, one woman who allegedly worked with Gino told the publication: “Gino said and did whatever he wanted.”
Another source shared to the Daily Mail: “This is all about the MasterChef effect. ITV has looked at what is happening over at the BBC and is worried.” The source likened the event to Gregg Wallace’s investigation at the BBC, which resulted in the broadcaster having to cancel two Celebrity MasterChef specials over Christmas at a major loss.
“If they are easing Gino out, it does reduce the chances of them having commissioned a show that they may have to can or cancel mid-way through a series,” they explained, adding that the BBC would “regret” not acting before having to take such dramatic action. They added: “Gino has a reputation for his on-set antics, and while many viewers really love him and his presenting style, he has also clearly upset people he has worked with along the way.”
The insider suggested that the investigation into Wallace may have paved the way for others to come forwards, adding: “Wallace saw his behaviour as banter, and while Gino may feel the same, the world has moved on.” Gino himself has publicly addressed the claims made against them, releasing a statement refuting the “deeply upsetting” allegations. The Italian star said: “I have been told by ITN news that allegations have been made about me acting inappropriately, some dating back over ten years ago.
“I have never been made aware of these matters previously and the allegations are firmly denied. I would not do anything that I thought would upset or distress anyone. This is simply not in my nature. I do not recognise the version of events being put to me.”
Gino added: “Not only have these allegations never been raised with me before, I have been repeatedly supported by executives at the highest level and was commissioned on prime-time programmes during the period in which it is now suggested I was acting inappropriately.
“I am a father, husband and have worked with well over 1,500 people on around 80 productions in my career, which I have been so proud of. I take such matters extremely seriously and the suggestion that I have acted in an improper way against is deeply upsetting.”
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