John Barrowman has spoken out about the controversy surrounding Gino D’Acampo, 

suggesting that the TV industry itself may have played a role in encouraging the chef’s on-screen behavior. 

The former Doctor Who star, who has faced his own allegations of misconduct, 

expressed doubts about D’Acampo’s ability to return to television, arguing that producers once celebrated the very conduct they now condemn.

Barrowman Claims Producers “Sexualised” Gino’s TV Persona

Speaking during a Q&A session, Barrowman referenced a 2011 episode of This Morning, in which D’Acampo cooked wearing nothing but an apron. 

He suggested that such moments were orchestrated by TV producers who actively encouraged the chef’s cheeky, provocative persona.

“Now, he didn’t decide to do that. Production asked him to do it,” Barrowman stated. “So they’re sexualising him, just like when I was on camera and they would tell me, ‘You’ve got to be naked, you’ve got to do this.’”

Barrowman argued that these moments created an environment in which presenters and guests felt pressured to play along with the humor and antics producers expected of them. However, he claimed that when public sentiment shifts, the same broadcasters who once celebrated such behavior are quick to distance themselves.

“So we then feel that there’s an atmosphere of, ‘Let’s have a laugh and let’s have fun,’” he continued. “But then when it comes out that we’ve had a laugh, they all go, ‘Oh my God! We’re not on with this!’ This is hypocrisy, basically.”

Can Gino D’Acampo’s Career Recover?

Barrowman was skeptical about whether D’Acampo’s TV career could bounce back, drawing from his own experiences with industry backlash. “At the moment, no. You won’t see me [on TV],” he admitted, referencing the allegations that led to his own professional setbacks. “It’s kind of the same thing that I went through.”

However, Barrowman held out hope that time might change the industry’s stance. “Once that all dies out, maybe [I will be back on TV], but I figured I’m going to tour more,” he added.

Vicky Entwistle Defends Gino Amid Allegations

Barrowman’s comments echoed sentiments expressed by former Coronation Street actress Vicky Entwistle, who has publicly defended D’Acampo. She criticized ITV, claiming they had once embraced his larger-than-life persona but were now turning against him.

“I don’t know this man personally, therefore have no reason to stick my neck out in his defense. BUT!!!” she wrote on social media. “ITV played that man for all he was worth… cheeky, naughty, foreign, hilarious!!! It all fitted in 10 years ago… now with a new WOKE agenda they crucify him?!?”

Entwistle’s comments reflect a broader debate about changing social norms and whether individuals should be held accountable for behavior that was once accepted—or even encouraged—by the industry.

ITV’s Investigation into Gino D’Acampo

D’Acampo, 48, has been at the center of controversy following allegations of “distressing” and “sexually inappropriate” behavior spanning more than 12 years. ITV News reported that they had spoken to over 40 individuals who either witnessed or experienced inappropriate conduct by the chef.

While some defended D’Acampo and spoke positively about their experiences working with him, others claimed his remarks and behavior were “disgusting” and unacceptable.

D’Acampo has denied all allegations, calling them “deeply upsetting.” His legal representatives issued a strong statement rejecting the accusations, with the chef himself expressing disbelief over the claims.

“I am a father, a husband, and have worked with well over 1,500 people on around 80 productions in my career, which I have been so proud of,” he said. “I take such matters extremely seriously.”

A Career in Jeopardy

D’Acampo has been a staple of British television since the early 2000s, known for his work on ITV cooking shows, travel programs, and guest appearances on entertainment series. However, the ongoing investigation and mounting allegations have put his future in the industry at risk.

Meanwhile, Barrowman has faced similar challenges. Following historic allegations, including claims of inappropriate behavior on the set of Doctor Who, his presence on British television has significantly diminished. Although he made a brief appearance on Celebrity SAS: Who Dares Wins, his role as a judge on Dancing On Ice ended, and he currently has no professional ties to Doctor Who.

The Changing Landscape of Television

Barrowman’s comments highlight a broader conversation about how television personalities are shaped by industry expectations—and how those same expectations can later lead to their downfall. While D’Acampo’s fate remains uncertain, his case has reignited discussions about accountability, changing social attitudes, and whether television networks should bear responsibility for the behavior they once encouraged.

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