Celebrity chef Gino D’Acampo has found himself at the center of controversy following allegations of inappropriate conduct while filming the ITV series Emission Impossible.
Reports suggest that during an episode filmed in October 2023, but ultimately left unaired, D’Acampo made an inappropriate remark to a female dancer, leaving her feeling humiliated.
On-Set Incident Sparks Complaints
According to reports, the Italian chef and his co-star Fred Sirieix were in Austria filming a segment where they were being taught traditional dance.
During the scene, D’Acampo allegedly persistently questioned a female dancer about whether she preferred Italian or French men,
despite her stating that she was in a relationship.
The situation escalated when D’Acampo reportedly pretended to slap Sirieix’s genitals before making a suggestive comment to the dancer, saying, “Why don’t you just have a threesome?”
The dancer immediately rejected the remark, responding with a firm “No” before turning to the audience and asking, “Everybody happy?” Despite her clear dismissal, reports indicate that members of the dance troupe later filed a complaint with the production company regarding D’Acampo’s behavior.
Concerns Over ITV’s Handling of Complaints
This incident comes amid growing scrutiny over ITV’s response to allegations of misconduct involving D’Acampo. Reports indicate that complaints about his behavior on various television productions have been made at least six times between 2018 and 2023.
A source connected to the Emission Impossible production revealed that several complaints had been lodged by both cast members and crew, which were escalated to ITV executives. The source added that filming was abruptly halted after a week in Austria, citing D’Acampo’s illness as the official reason. However, insiders suggest that concerns over his conduct had already been raised prior to the pause in production.
Wider Allegations of Misconduct
Beyond this most recent controversy, D’Acampo has been accused of engaging in inappropriate and intimidating behavior over the past 12 years, with more than 40 allegations emerging. The chef has denied all accusations, stating that he finds them deeply distressing.
One unnamed woman who worked with him in 2021 described his behavior as “bullying and an abuse of power.” She recalled an incident where he threw unwanted equipment onto the floor in front of the crew, forcing her to pick up each item one by one. She claimed this act was degrading and that she felt “terrified” of him during filming.
These allegations have led to increased calls for ITV to reassess its handling of workplace complaints and its continued association with the TV personality.
Divided Reactions from Co-Stars and ITV Figures
Despite the growing controversy, Fred Sirieix has publicly shown support for D’Acampo. The First Dates star was recently spotted liking one of D’Acampo’s social media posts, though the interaction has since disappeared. Meanwhile, Gordon Ramsay, a long-time collaborator of D’Acampo’s, has remained silent amid the controversy.
D’Acampo’s departure from Gordon, Gino, and Fred’s Road Trip last year was reportedly due to contractual disputes, though insiders claim that ITV’s decision to introduce a morality clause—allowing them to terminate his contract over problematic behavior—was a major factor. At the time, D’Acampo stated that his choice to leave was based on maintaining his friendship with Ramsay and Sirieix rather than facing contractual disagreements.
ITV Under Pressure to Respond
In light of these latest revelations, ITV is facing mounting criticism over its handling of misconduct allegations. Women’s advocacy groups have condemned the network for allowing inappropriate behavior to persist on set.
An investigation conducted by ITV News uncovered numerous complaints against D’Acampo across multiple productions, including Gino’s Italian Express, Gordon, Gino, and Fred’s Road Trip, and Emission Impossible. Many of his accusers described his language and actions as distressing and unacceptable.
As scrutiny over his conduct intensifies, the future of D’Acampo’s career in television remains uncertain. While his supporters argue that his on-screen persona is lighthearted and comedic, critics insist that his alleged behavior crosses the line and that ITV must take decisive action.
What’s Next for Gino D’Acampo?
For now, D’Acampo has yet to publicly respond to the latest allegations beyond his previous denials. ITV has also not made an official statement regarding whether he will continue to appear on its programming.
With continued pressure on the network to take a firm stance against workplace misconduct, it remains to be seen how this controversy will impact D’Acampo’s career moving forward. One thing is certain—the allegations have cast a shadow over his once-beloved television persona, and the fallout may not be over yet.
Follow us to see more useful information, as well as to give us more motivation to update more useful information for you.
