James Martin has responded to claims he is at the centre of a “bullying” row and has apologised for causing “offence or upset”.
Earlier this week, it was reported that the TV chef, 51, had been accused of bullying and intimidating crew on “multiple occasions”.
According to Deadline, commercial broadcaster ITV received a complaint in May from some of his closest colleagues.
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The outlet claimed that the TV chef had been told that he must change his behaviour after concerns were raised during the filming of James Martin’s Spanish Adventure.
The publication also alleged that while filming James Martin’s Saturday Morning in 2018, the presenter “launched a foul-mouthed tirade against staff” when a drain in his home became blocked.
(Image: Ken McKay/ITV/REX/Shutterstock)
However, according to Deadline the broadcaster does not have record of the incident as they were only made aware through “informal channels”.
And now, James has addressed the allegations in a joint statement with production company Blue Marlin TV, which he runs with his agent.
A representative told Daily Star: “An unfortunate incident occurred after filming James Martin’s Saturday Morning in 2018 where James’ home was badly damaged. Blue Marlin Television accepted responsibility.
“James was shocked by what had happened and on reflection acknowledges he responded emotionally, which he wholly regrets.
“James apologises for any offence or upset caused, as he did at the time to the crew involved.”
(Image: Ken McKay/ITV/REX/Shutterstock)
The statement went on: “Following this and some issues filming James Martin’s Spanish Adventures, James and Blue Marlin Television agree that lessons have been learned which have been discussed with members of the team and with ITV.
“Blue Marlin Television and James Martin have taken on board ITV’s recommendations and their sharing of best practice, and are in the process of fully implementing. Since the 2018 incident, Blue Marlin Television has continued to film over 500 shows at James’ home. Blue Marlin Television remains committed to ensuring the welfare of all those with whom they work is of the utmost priority.”
James was accused of berating members of the crew and reducing people to tears in front of other colleagues, whilst also opting for last minute schedule changes, which reduced sleeping hours for the production team.
(Image: ITV)
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Deadline also reported that he arrived an hour late to filming commitments as one source told the publication: “What’s remarkable is I saw this behaviour on every project I did with him and it feels conscious.”
They added: “I think he just feels like it’s OK to behave like that.”
The complaint was handed over to Katie Rawcliffe, ITV’s Head of Entertainment who later approached the presenter and his agent.
She requested an independent investigation and report into the incident as well as evidence for the processes surrounding how complaints can be made by team members.
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Source: Celebrities - dailystar.co.uk
