Celebrity chef Gino D'Acampo is confronting serious new allegations of bullying and intimidation on the sets of various television productions, according to a recent ITV News investigation. The claims add to existing reports concerning the This Morning star's conduct behind the cameras.
Pattern of Alleged Intimidation and Fear
The investigation, which scrutinised the period between 2010 and 2024, gathered testimony from former crew members who worked with the Italian chef. Multiple sources reportedly stated they 'feared' him, with several individuals describing feeling 'belittled' and 'humiliated' by his behaviour. These new accusations of bullying follow dozens of previously reported claims regarding sexually inappropriate behaviour from the television personality.
One specific incident, which occurred during the filming of his cookery series Gino's Italy: Like Mamma Used to Make in 2022, has been detailed publicly for the first time by former television executive Sue Fowler. She served as the most senior production member on the set.
A Specific Incident and a Formal Complaint
Sue Fowler described a distressing event where a freelance crew member collapsed on location due to a suspected heart attack. "[The crew member's] legs kind of buckle from underneath him, his eyes are kind of rolling back again, sweating profusely and [he] just looks grey," she recounted to ITV.
In the midst of organising emergency medical assistance, Fowler claims Gino D'Acampo told the crew they should "package him up and send him back like they do on Amazon Prime." She further alleges the chef stated, "People live, people die. Anyone who gives a f*** about this production will follow me down to the beach and start filming now. Anyone who doesn't can stay up here." Another individual present corroborated that Gino remarked, "If he is going to die, he better die quietly."
Fowler stated she filed a formal complaint following this incident, asserting she was 'distraught' and 'horrified' by the comments. She found Gino "extremely intimidating and bullying," adding that he "humiliated people" and that a "fear of him" existed among the crew. She claims her concerns were not taken seriously because "Gino brings in money."
ITV's Response and Industry Repercussions
In a statement provided to The Mirror, ITV addressed the allegations: "When issues about Gino D'Acampo's behaviour have been brought to ITV's attention we have looked into them and addressed them... If a new complaint of inappropriate behaviour, whether historical or current, is raised with us it will be looked into by our Complaints Handling Unit."
The broadcaster emphasised its commitment to a respectful environment and outlined measures implemented in recent years, including a dedicated Complaints Handling Unit established in 2024 and strengthened conduct guidelines for on-screen personalities. They encourage anyone with concerns to come forward via their confidential hotline, Safecall.
Sue Fowler used this platform to highlight the vulnerability of freelance workers, stating that more needs to be done to protect those who feel unable to act as whistleblowers. "There were no repercussions for Gino," she said, reflecting on the outcome of her own complaint.
The Mirror has contacted representatives for Gino D'Acampo for comment on these new claims.
