Gino D’Acampo Denies Allegations of Drawing Explicit Image of TV Producer in ‘Unsettling Encounter’

TV chef Gino D’Acampo has strongly denied allegations that he created an inappropriate drawing of a television producer during live filming. 

The accusations surfaced as ITV launched an investigation into claims that he engaged in “sexually inappropriate” behavior, which he also refutes. 

The controversy has resulted in Gino’s shows being pulled from the network’s schedules, leaving him feeling “hurt and betrayed” by ITV.

Allegations of an Explicit Drawing

The claims center around an alleged incident that reportedly occurred between 2007 and 2008 while Gino was working on a TV cookery program. 

A former female colleague has come forward with a formal complaint, alleging that the chef sketched a crude drawing of her in front of the production team during a live filming session.

“In front of the rest of the production team on the studio floor during live filming, he picked up a pad and paper and asked to draw a picture of me. I thought it was going to be a harmless caricature. But when he showed me the finished drawing, I felt shocked and humiliated,” she reportedly told a friend, as cited by The Sun.

It is alleged that the drawing depicted a nude woman sitting with her legs spread apart. The woman, who has remained anonymous, filed her complaint with ITV on December 3, 2024.

Gino D’Acampo’s Response

In response to these claims, Gino’s spokesperson released a statement asserting that the chef was unaware of the allegations until he was contacted by The Sun on Sunday on February 22, 2025.

“Mr. D’Acampo was first made aware of these allegations relating to events that are said to have occurred over 17 years ago yesterday afternoon when he was emailed by The Sun on Sunday,” the statement read.

The spokesperson further stated that the claims were “extremely vague,” lacking specific details such as the year, the individuals involved, or the context of the alleged incidents. Gino firmly denies the accusations and has urged ITV to reach out to him directly regarding the matter.

“He has been told by The Sun on Sunday that they are from a complaint to ITV from December 2024. If so, he urges ITV to contact him about it, and he will fully cooperate. He is deeply worried about the immense and escalating distress that these allegations are having on his family,” the statement continued.

ITV’s Investigation and Official Response

Following the complaint, ITV has reiterated its commitment to ensuring a safe and respectful workplace. The network released a statement emphasizing that any inappropriate behavior is taken seriously and will be thoroughly investigated.

“The behavior detailed is inappropriate and unacceptable. We are committed to investigating complaints in an appropriate manner and according to our robust protocols,” an ITV spokesperson told The Mirror.

Additionally, ITV highlighted the steps it has taken in recent years to improve its workplace culture, including the establishment of a dedicated Complaints Handling Unit in 2024. The network has also reinforced expectations regarding on-screen talent through its Conduct and Standards Guidelines, also issued in 2024.

“Everyone working with ITV is subject to our Code of Ethics and Conduct. We do not tolerate abusive behavior of any form in the workplace,” ITV stated.

The Complainant’s Perspective

A source close to the woman who made the complaint stated that she felt “utterly humiliated” by Gino’s alleged behavior. The source also suggested that the woman had been encouraged to speak out after hearing about similar allegations involving other TV personalities.

“These incidents didn’t take place in private settings—they occurred openly, in front of other production staff. The woman hopes ITV acknowledges that this behavior is not only a recent issue isolated to her,” the source claimed.

They further added that she gained the confidence to report the incident after hearing about the case involving Gregg Wallace, who recently faced backlash for dismissing complaints against him as being from “middle-class women.”

The Impact on Gino D’Acampo’s Career

As ITV continues its investigation, Gino’s shows remain off the air, and it is unclear whether they will return in the future. The TV chef, who has built a successful career as a presenter and restaurateur, is now facing one of the most serious controversies of his career.

Despite the ongoing speculation, Gino has remained firm in his denial, maintaining that he has never been made aware of these allegations before and does not recognize the claims being made against him.

As the situation develops, ITV’s handling of the complaint and the outcome of the investigation will be closely watched by both industry insiders and the public.

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