This Morning chef Gino D’Acampo is facing allegations of “sexually inappropriate” behaviour over a period spanning more than 12 years and has firmly denied the claims
The next steps in Gino D’Acampo’s complaints scandal could include civil claims and more victims coming forward, a lawyer claims.
The 48-year-old This Morning star has been accused of “sexually inappropriate” behaviour and faces allegations from “dozens” of people spanning over 12 years. The TV chef’s alleged behaviour has been described as “unacceptable, distressing and horrendous”.
The accusations emerged from an ITV News probe and come from people who allegedly worked with Gino. The ITV star has “firmly denied” the allegations and said they are “deeply upsetting”.
Gino’s shows have been axed from ITV’s schedule in light of the scandal. The broadcaster has dropped two episodes of Gino’s Italy: Secrets of the South originally due to air at the weekend. They were going to air between 6pm and 7pm on Sunday on ITVBe, but now it’s been replaced by Abbey Clancy: Celebrity Homes.
Family Fortunes, the gameshow which Gino hosts, will also reportedly not air and ITV News reports that episodes filmed in 2023 won’t ever be broadcasted. The episodes were expected to this Spring but now is believed there are “no plans” to work with Gino again.
It is likely that removal of his shows from programming could be the start the of a longer saga, which depending on what happens next could have severe consequences for ITV and D’Acampo himself. A lawyer has suggested the matter could go to court as he predicts alleged victims may pursue claims against the chef or their employer.
Thomas Beale, Partner and Head of the Bullying and Harassment team at Bolt Burdon Kemp said: “The revelation that Objective Media Group were aware of numerous complaints about D’Acampo’s inappropriate sexual behaviour, yet continued working with him on further TV programmes is extremely concerning. Whilst the production company claims that ‘bespoke training was provided and completed’, it is evident that D’Acampo’s conduct continued to cause issues for members of staff, and no substantive action was taken.
“In seeking redress, survivors may choose to pursue a civil claim directly against D’Acampo. Alternatively, they may choose to pursue a claim against their employer, who could be held vicariously liable for D’Acampo’s actions.
He continued: “It is imperative that organisations are armed with robust policies and procedures for dealing with complaints of misconduct. If it transpires that D’Acampo’s employers were aware of the complaints against him, and failed to take appropriate measures to protect their employees, this could open the door for survivors to pursue claims for compensation in the civil courts against the employers.
“I am hopeful that the revelation of these allegations will encourage more victims to come forward and speak up about their experiences with D’Acampo. Moving forward, it is crucial for any production company involved to ensure that employees receive appropriate support and compensation for their suffering.
“These allegations should serve as a wakeup call for the industry as a whole. It is imperative that the safety of employees remains the industry’s paramount concern.”
Denying the claims, Gino told ITV News: “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.
“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.”
One woman claimed she received vulgar comments from Gino in 2011. She alleged Mr D’Acampo said he would “like to turn me over and f*** me up the a*** against the kitchen counter.” She claimed crew members laughed after he made the comment.
If you or somebody you know has been affected by this story, contact Victim Support for free, confidential advice on 08 08 16 89 111 or visit their website, Home – Victim Support.
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Source: Celebrities - dailystar.co.uk
