Imagine settling in for your favorite evening cooking show only to find it’s no longer on the schedule. That’s exactly what happened recently with ITV.
In a swift move, the channel pulled Gino D’Acampo’s latest Italian culinary adventure—and even his hosting of Family Fortunes—from its upcoming line-up.
The decision comes amid growing concerns over allegations of sexual misconduct dating back over a decade.
ITV’s Schedule Shake-Up
ITV has made some significant changes to its programming.
Two episodes of Gino’s Italy: Secrets of the South that were slated to air on ITVBe have been replaced by an episode of Abbey Clancy: Celebrity Homes.
Similarly, the familiar family game show Family Fortunes—once fronted by Gino—has been swapped out for Wheel of Fortune with Graham Norton on ITV2.
An insider explained that ITV is being extra cautious now, hoping to steer clear of controversies that have recently rocked other broadcasters.
The Allegations in a Nutshell
Over the past 12 years, multiple accusations have surfaced regarding Gino’s behavior on various shows.
Some former colleagues and crew members claim that while filming programs like Gino’s Italian Express, Gordon, Gino and Fred’s Road Trip, and others, Gino used overly sexualized and aggressive language on set.
These claims range from crude, offhand remarks to more explicit sexual comments that some say made them feel humiliated or unsafe.
It’s been suggested that back then, many of those involved were too afraid to speak up due to their self-employed status and fear of being ostracized in the industry.
The “MasterChef Effect” and ITV’s Precautions
An ITV insider pointed out that the broadcaster’s decision to step away from Gino seems partly influenced by what many are calling the “MasterChef effect.”
After witnessing similar controversies—like the issues with BBC’s Gregg Wallace and the fallout from Phillip Schofield’s departure—ITV appears determined not to risk another scandal mid-season.
Their goal is to avoid the kind of abrupt cancellations and reputational damage that have hurt other high-profile programs.
Specific Incidents Recounted
Several accounts have detailed moments on set that some describe as crossing the line. For example:
- One former team member recalled an incident during a magazine shoot where Gino allegedly made a crude sexual comment in front of the entire crew.
- Another incident involved Gino reportedly appearing in nothing but his boxer shorts during a location briefing, followed by a lewd joke about his own physique.
- There’s also a claim that he once told a junior staff member he’d “take care” of their girlfriend if he wasn’t served a Cornetto ice cream.
- In another case, a young colleague was said to have been subject to explicit comments about her appearance, and another witness mentioned an offhand suggestion about getting drunk and having sex as a group.
While these allegations paint a troubling picture for some, Gino’s representatives—and the chef himself—firmly deny any wrongdoing.
Gino’s Response and Denials
Gino D’Acampo has been quick to refute the claims.
In a statement released to ITV News, he insisted that he was never made aware of any such issues during his long career.
“I would never do anything to upset or distress anyone. This isn’t in my nature,” he stated.
His legal team emphasized that the allegations are entirely new to him, noting that he’s always enjoyed strong support from top executives and has built a career spanning over 80 productions without prior complaint.
What Production Companies Say
The controversy has also drawn comments from several production companies.
Objective Media Group, which co-produced one of Gino’s shows, confirmed that they had received emails flagging what they described as “unacceptable and distressing” behavior.
MultiStory Media and Studio Ramsay have both stressed that they take any claims of workplace misconduct seriously, noting that thorough reviews and remedial actions are part of their standard practices.
These companies also mentioned that many of these concerns were never officially reported at the time they occurred.
The Industry’s New Reality
The fallout from high-profile incidents elsewhere—like the Gregg Wallace and Phillip Schofield cases—has prompted broadcasters to reexamine their standards.
ITV has made it clear that the safety and well-being of its staff are a top priority.
By reshuffling its schedules and distancing itself from controversial figures, the channel is signaling that it won’t tolerate behavior deemed inappropriate, no matter how popular the talent may be.
What’s Next?
With his shows off the main schedule for now and questions still swirling, the future of Gino D’Acampo’s TV career remains uncertain.
While some of his previous programs will continue to be available on ITV’s streaming service, the network’s current actions indicate a move toward tighter oversight and a more cautious approach to talent management.
For now, Gino maintains that the allegations are baseless and insists he’s been unfairly targeted—a stance that leaves viewers and industry insiders alike wondering what the next chapter will hold.
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