Gino D'Acampo 'to move to Australia' after ITV axe and misconduct claims

Celebrity chefGino D'Acampo is reportedly orchestrating a significant career shift to Australia, five months following ITV's decision to sever ties with him amid serious misconduct claims.

The renowned television personality, aged 48, is allegedly gearing up to establish multiple new enterprises Down Under, encompassing two eateries, a kitchenware collection, and a technology platform, as he distances himself from the British media scene.

While retaining a UK residence, D'Acampo is anticipated to dedicate the majority of the forthcoming two years to Australia, sources suggest.

His spokesperson alluded to the substantial relocation, stating: "He loves Australia a lot - the people, culture, cleanliness and environment."

This strategic move follows a challenging period for the former This Morning contributor, reports the Mirror.

Earlier this year, ITV News launched an inquiry into "unacceptable", "distressing" and "horrendous" conduct by D'Acampo, with some allegations reportedly spanning more than ten years.

Previous reports disclosed that television executives had enrolled him in a language and behaviour programme.

Additional accusations emerged that ITV had neglected to address numerous complaints, including episodes involving unsuitable remarks directed at This Morning presenter Holly Willoughby in 2018.

D'Acampo subsequently found himself excluded from Gordon, Gino and Fred: Road Trip following his refusal to agree to a conduct agreement.

Nevertheless, he has persistently refuted all accusations levelled against him. A confidant of the celebrity chef divulged to The Sun: "Gino has had a fantastic career over here - and still has an incredibly loyal fanbase. But it's been made clear to him that TV opportunities over here are few and far between in the wake of recent allegations, and that's frustrating."

The source continued, highlighting Gino's practical approach despite denying any misconduct: "While Gino has always denied any wrongdoing, he's a pragmatist and knows it's time for new adventures. He's been inundated with offers Down Under following a really successful tour there."

D'Acampo, who triumphed in I'm A Celebrity... Get Me Out of Here in the Australian wilderness in 2009, is said to have fallen for Australia during his 2019 Aussie Escapes tour and is now eyeing property in Melbourne.

"He spent some time in Australia a few years ago, and loved it," added the insider. "He still has a large social media following and plans to capitalise on that in the next stage of his career."

It's understood that his wife Jessica and their three children will stay in the UK for the time being, but "if all goes well, Australia is a full-time option".

This comes after the unfortunate folding of his restaurant chain, which entered administration owing £7.3 million. D'Acampo has put his £4.2 million Hertfordshire abode on the market and is believed to have already purchased another property in the UK.

The Mirror is seeking a statement from Gino's representatives regarding the matter.