ITV’s investigation into celebrity chef Gino D’Acampo has uncovered claims from a female television producer

who alleges that the 48-year-old sketched an explicit drawing of her during live filming. 

The accusation is one of several that have surfaced regarding D’Acampo’s conduct over the past 12 years, 

with multiple individuals reportedly describing his behavior as “distressing,” “unacceptable,” and even “horrendous.”

Allegations of an “Unsettling” Incident on Set

The female producer, whose claims were first reported by The Sun, alleged that the unsettling encounter took place while filming Saturday Cooks!. 

According to her account, D’Acampo had offered to draw a portrait of her, which she believed would be a lighthearted caricature. However, when he revealed the completed sketch, she was allegedly shocked to find an explicit image of a naked woman with her legs spread open.

Expressing her discomfort, the producer reportedly confided in a friend, stating, “I thought it was going to be a harmless caricature. But when he showed me the finished drawing, I felt shocked and humiliated.” She also alleged that D’Acampo made a sexual comment about the leather boots she was wearing at the time.

D’Acampo Denies Allegations

Despite the mounting accusations, D’Acampo has denied any wrongdoing, calling the allegations “deeply upsetting” and insisting that such behavior is “simply not in my nature.” The chef, who has long been known for his cheeky and playful on-screen persona, has yet to provide further public comments beyond his initial denial.

Former Co-Host Melanie Sykes Speaks Out

The claims against D’Acampo come amid broader discussions about misconduct in the entertainment industry. His former Let’s Do Lunch co-host, Melanie Sykes, has been vocal about her own negative experiences in television, calling for a complete overhaul of the industry.

Sykes, who hosted the ITV daytime cookery show alongside D’Acampo for three years, has previously criticized television executives for allowing inappropriate behavior to persist on set.

“I’ve been watching what’s happening with all these misogynists on telly, and I’m supporting anybody who’s experienced anything beyond the pale,” Sykes said. “There is no protection. Some of it’s being done behind closed doors, but it’s happening on set. When channels say, ‘It’s not our problem because it’s with a production company,’ it’s just appalling.”

She also recalled a conversation with D’Acampo in which he allegedly boasted about his direct access to television executives, claiming he could bypass formal meetings and approach higher-ups directly.

Additional Allegations of Inappropriate Behavior

The claims against D’Acampo extend beyond the explicit drawing incident. Reports suggest that he has been accused of making inappropriate remarks about women, including alleged comments directed at fellow television personalities.

In one reported incident from 2012, D’Acampo allegedly kissed a footballer’s wife on the lips without warning while attending a black-tie charity event at Stoke City Football Club. Witnesses claim the chef made the bold move in front of a large audience and later bragged, “I did it because I f***** can.”*

An eyewitness described the moment, stating, “As Gino was introduced to the stage, he walked through the audience directly to the table where the footballer and his wife were seated. He then very suddenly grabbed her by the face and kissed her on the lips.”

While the woman’s identity has been kept private out of respect for her privacy, the incident has resurfaced as part of the growing scrutiny surrounding D’Acampo’s behavior.

ITV’s Response and Ongoing Investigation

ITV has since released a statement reaffirming its commitment to fostering a respectful and safe workplace environment. The network emphasized that it does not tolerate abusive behavior in any form and that it has strengthened its policies in recent years to address complaints regarding on-screen talent.

“The standards of behavior that ITV expects are very clear. Everyone working with ITV is subject to ITV’s Code of Ethics and Conduct,” a spokesperson said. “We have reiterated our expectations of our on-screen presenters’ behavior through our Conduct and Standards Guidelines issued in 2024.”

ITV also confirmed that it has launched an investigation into the complaints against D’Acampo, promising to handle the matter according to its internal protocols.

D’Acampo’s Response to the Investigation

A representative for D’Acampo stated that the chef was only made aware of the allegations when contacted by The Sun on Sunday. The spokesperson claimed that the accusations, which allegedly stem from an ITV complaint filed in December 2024, lack specific details such as dates, names, or context.

“None of these allegations have ever been brought to his attention previously, he does not recollect them, and he does not recognize the behavior attributed to him. He denies these allegations,” the spokesperson said.

Furthermore, D’Acampo has urged ITV to contact him directly regarding the complaints so that he can fully cooperate with the investigation. He also expressed concern about the emotional toll these accusations are having on his family.

What’s Next for D’Acampo?

As ITV continues to investigate the allegations, it remains unclear what consequences D’Acampo may face if the claims are substantiated. While he has built a successful television career with his larger-than-life personality, the recent accusations have cast a shadow over his reputation.

The unfolding situation also raises broader questions about workplace culture in the entertainment industry and whether networks are doing enough to hold high-profile personalities accountable for their actions.

For now, all eyes are on ITV’s investigation as the network determines the next steps in handling the claims against one of its most recognizable television chefs.

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