TV chef Gino D’Acampo is under fresh scrutiny following new allegations of bullying and intimidation on production sets.
An ITV News investigation has looked into his behaviour over more than a decade, with former crew members describing feeling “belittled” and “humiliated,” and admitting they worked in fear of him during shoots for ITV shows between 2010 and 2024.
Disturbing Claims from Former Crew Members
These recent allegations follow former claims regarding unhappy sexual conduct. Sue Fowler, a former TV superintendent, has come forward for the first time to share her story, pressing how freelancers frequently feel helpless to report issues when dealing with high-profile personalities.
Fowler suggests that the reaction to D’Acampo’s gesture was largely ignored because of his marketable value to ITV.
Fowler recounted a serious incident in Naples where a crew member collapsed on set. She claimed that D’Acampo made insensitive remarks that showed little regard for the person’s health and safety.
“I was absolutely distraught,” she said, describing his behaviour as “extremely intimidating” and saying it created a hostile environment that affected staff morale. Despite filing formal complaints, Fowler feels little was done to hold him accountable.
Ongoing Worries About TV Industry Conduct
Allegations surrounding D’Acampo’s conduct aren’t new. Crew members have reported issues dating back to 2010, and enterprises have continued into recent products.
During the filming of Gino’s Italy Secrets of the South in 2023, complaints were made about his crude language and insulting gestures, particularly towards female staff.
How ITV and Production Companies Responded?
ITV has conceded former complaints, stating that each issue was delved into. A prophet verified that D’Acampo was reminded of anticipated conduct on set and completed training on importunity and bullying.
Fowler, still, claims ITV failed to duly hold him to regard, with his economic contracts continuing despite the repeated complaints.
Betty TV, the product company behind some of D’Acampo’s systems, said staff well-being is a top priority. They conducted a full disquisition after an incident in 2022 and enforced corrective measures based on their findings.
Wider Industry Implications
The case has sparked wider exchanges about bullying and importunity in the TV industry. Caroline Dinenage, Chair of the Culture, Media and Sport Select Committee, emphasised that freelancers frequently sweat retribution, which perpetuates a culture of silence.
CIISA and Industry Standards
The Creative Industries Independent Standards Authority (CIISA) has also stressed the wide issue of bullying in television and film, and is developing standardised reporting protocols along with better support for whistleblowers.
The allegations against Gino D’Acampo shine a limelight on ongoing power imbalances in the TV industry and the challenges faced by staff and freelancers who feel unfit to speak up.
