Gino D’Acampo’s secret comeback: he was cancelled for being ‘inappropriate’, but now GRANT TUCKER reveals the Italian chef is plotting his TV return – and the women helping him

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He often made viewers smile with his playful double entendres, serving as the on-screen chef for ITV’s This Morning program.

However, on certain other productions, accusations were made that Gino D’Acampo frequently crossed boundaries. Moreover, it was recently disclosed that a significant number of individuals who had collaborated with him throughout the years have lodged complaints about his allegedly inappropriate and overbearing conduct during filming.

Regardless of his strong protests, ITV took him off their schedule and essentially ended his presence there.

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In spite of his firm assertions to the contrary, ITV decided to drop the 49-year-old Italian from their lineup and effectively terminated his appearances.

It’s said that D’Acampo is preparing for a return, backed by women producers he has collaborated with previously, who believe he was unfairly treated.

Through their assistance, he’s resolute on proving his innocence, regaining the confidence of broadcasting networks, and reclaiming his spot in front of the camera again.

The women producers I’ve interacted with opine that ‘he should be given another opportunity’ and contend that his character was ‘misrepresented, not reflecting who he truly is.’

Over the next six months, D’Acampo has several high-earning performances scheduled overseas, keeping him occupied.

Afterward, he intends to go back to the United Kingdom during the spring season and initiate a genuine effort aimed at winning over television executives through persuasive and appealing presentations on their channels.

Previously, the host of Family Fortunes encountered criticism in February, as ITV News revealed allegations from anonymous sources concerning the chef’s behavior deemed ‘inappropriate’ and ‘upsetting’ across multiple shows during a timeframe longer than 12 years.

Information pertaining to his appearances on television programs like Gino’s Italian Escape and Gordon, Gino and Fred: Road Trip is being discussed in these statements.

On BBC programs, too, D’Acampo showed up without any allegations of misconduct being lodged against him during that time.

A female producer, who often collaborated with the chef, shared with me that ‘Gino wasn’t among those difficult personalities you find on TV.’

His humor often leans towards the unconventional, and not only did his fellow actors approve of it, but Holly Willoughby also supported this style of humor.

Over the course of our work together, I found that I never felt uneasy, quite the contrary. He consistently created a welcoming environment for everyone, all while upholding his demanding standards.

‘Upon reading the accusations, it seemed like he wasn’t what he appeared to be. However, he was wonderful to collaborate with, and I personally think he merits another opportunity.’

This was a sentiment echoed to me by another woman who worked alongside Gino.

A crucial part of his plan to rebuild his career involves examining how other prominent speakers handled comparable accusations, taking note of their insights as a means to learn from their experiences.

According to a friend of his, Gino has been observing closely as other popular TV shows struggle amidst turbulent times. He was advised to stay silent, which is exactly what he’s done.

‘He’s been very careful not to criticize his superiors and, though he strongly refutes the accusations, he hasn’t undermined the confidential accusers.’

This version maintains the original meaning while using simpler words and phrases for a more natural and easy-to-understand sentence.

Supporters of Gino think that how Gregg Wallace handled accusations of inappropriate sexual behavior serves as a powerful example of what actions should be avoided.

As a devoted supporter, I found myself in a position where I had to express my thoughts on social media, mentioning that most criticisms were primarily voiced by a select group of middle-aged women from the upper class. However, after encountering strong criticism, I felt compelled to issue an apology for my choice of words.

He was subsequently dismissed from the cookery show.

Wynne Evans, renowned for his strict stardom, experienced a similar downfall when he was caught using a vulgar sexual term ‘spit-roast’ on the dance show’s tour. Later, it was disclosed that BBC Radio Wales had received complaints about his behavior while working as a presenter there.

The troubled opera singer, who had been disgraced, continually criticized the corporation over their management of the scandal, ultimately leading to non-renewal of his contract with the BBC.

As a devoted fan, I found myself reflecting on John Torode’s departure from BBC’s MasterChef. After it was confirmed that inappropriate language he allegedly used was substantiated, his tenure on the show came to an end in a more subdued manner.

He continues to work as an ITV presenter, and more recently, he cooked with his wife Lisa Faulkner on the show “This Morning.

D’Acampo and his followers seem to have incorporated the lessons derived from his methods.

Although D’Acampo may have maintained a low profile, he has consistently demonstrated his widespread appeal on social media platforms. He has amassed close to five million followers on Instagram and Facebook alone.

Rather than discussing his current struggles, he frequently shares cheerful videos featuring him cooking with his spouse, Jessica, and their kids, Luciano (age 22), Rocco (age 19), and Mia (age 12).

As one of his friends, I’d say he isn’t the type to idle away time grumbling. Instead, he’s eager to demonstrate resilience, both for his fans and those in television, by proving that life moves forward and he continues to excel at what he does best – spreading joy through food.

As a loyal admirer, although the UK executives may still be keeping him out of sight, it’s clear that this individual remains a beloved character on global screens. I am thrilled to share that he will be gracing our viewing screens once more, this time in an overseas market.

Forthcoming entries on Gino’s international schedule feature him stepping into the role of a judge during an episode of MasterChef Malta for the first time.

The Mediterranean island nation holds a special place in the chef’s heart because it’s where he opened his very first international eatery, affectionately called Luciano – a name shared with his eldest son, who has since taken on the role of manager for this esteemed establishment.

Next up, Gino plans to jet off to Canada for an exciting adventure. During his visit, he’ll take the stage at not one but two live theater performances – one in Montreal, another in Toronto. Besides entertaining audiences, he intends to make use of his Canadian journey by producing a fresh video series called “An Italian in Canada.

Last year, he additionally taped a preliminary episode of an American series titled “Spaghetti Wars,” scheduled to broadcast this fall. The show’s executive producer, Barry Mendelson, has previously praised Gino, stating that he is ‘the standout performer’ and further remarking, ‘he truly shines on camera’.

As a die-hard fan, I can’t help but excitedly share that I’m migrating down under this winter – Australia, to be exact! I’ve got two brand-new culinary ventures waiting for me in the Land Down Under, ready to sizzle and satisfy. And that’s not all; my calendar is brimming with potential TV gigs for future seasons! Buckle up, because this ride is just getting started!

My friend suggests: ‘If he manages to demonstrate his abilities in Australia, it could help him repair his reputation. This improved standing might facilitate an easier comeback on British TV.’

Despite facing numerous challenges, including allegations about inappropriate sexual remarks, the presenter finds himself in a difficult position.

In light of the accusations against him for making inappropriate sexual comments, the presenter is currently experiencing a tough time.

Gino explicitly rejected the accusations, with his legal team indicating that he has no recollection or acknowledgment of the events in question.

In alignment with my genuine, people-centric approach, I assure you that I would never engage in actions that could cause discomfort or distress to others. Such behavior isn’t a part of who I am. The account presented to me seems unfamiliar.

Apart from the fact that these accusations were never brought up against me previously, I’ve consistently received backing from top-level executives and even appeared as a guest on primetime TV shows while people are now claiming I behaved improperly during that same timeframe.

As a dedicated family man, I’ve played roles as a father and husband, and throughout my professional journey, I’ve collaborated with more than 1,500 individuals across approximately 80 projects. These experiences fill me with immense pride. The allegation that I’ve acted inappropriately is not only disappointing but also deeply upsetting.

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2025-09-07 19:52