Gordon Ramsay has addressed claims that he 'cut off' Gino D'Acampo after he supposedly voiced concerns about the star in 2023.
Speculation about their alleged strained relationship has been rife since the Italian celebrity chef, 48, was accused of 'inappropriate and intimidating behaviour'.
Numerous allegations regarding 'unacceptable', 'distressing' and 'horrendous' experiences with D'Acampo emerged earlier this month following a bombshell ITV News investigation.
Advert
As a result, ITV said it 'has no plans to work with' him in the future, while two of his upcoming shows were reportedly shelved by the broadcaster.
D'Acampo has firmly denied the allegations, saying he finds the claims levied against him 'deeply upsetting'.
In wake of the controversy, focus has fallen on the TV star's longstanding friendships with the likes of Gordon Ramsay and Fred Sirieix.
The trio worked together on Gordon, Gino and Fred's Road Trip, which saw them travel to different countries to enjoy the local cuisine and culture.
Advert
Earlier this month, it was reported that Ramsay was 'no longer on speaking terms' with his fellow chef and had distanced himself from D'Acampo after raising 'concerns' about his behaviour.
It was also claimed that two years ago, the Hell's Kitchen host had 'spoken up about things he didn't think were okay' in terms of D'Acampo's alleged conduct.
Sources told the MailOnline earlier this month that this had led to a 'fractured' relationship between the pair, while Ramsay was said to have been 'horrified' by the allegations published by ITV News.
Advert
However, the British restaurateur, 58, has now insisted the rumours that he has washed his hands of D'Acampo are untrue.
While discussing the opening of his Lucky Cat restaurant in London with The Standard, Ramsay revealed that he has been in touch with both of his former co-stars.
"I have reached out to Gino, checked in to make sure he and the family were doing okay," he said. "Fred too."
Ramsay's camp also previously denied claims that he had 'orchestrated a smear campaign' against D'Acampo.
Advert
His spokesperson told The Standard that the speculation was 'utter nonsense' and 'ridiculous', adding: "It is ridiculous to think anyone in Studio Ramsay or Gordon’s personal team wants to prolong this story - it’s of no benefit to anyone!"
D'Acampo called time on Gordon, Gino and Fred's Road Trip in March 2023 and revealed he would not be returning for a planned fifth series due to 'contract complications'.
In an Instagram post announcing his departure at the time, the This Morning regular wrote: "I decided not to film any more Gordon, Gino and Fred Road trips.
Advert
"The reason is very simple - nothing to do with Gordon or Fred, the friendship is very strong."
He went on to say: "Because contracts start to become very complicated and very stressful, I personally value the friendship with Gordon and Fred so much that I would rather the friendship than arguments with the contract.
"So I have decided not to do it anymore because I want to be friends with the boys for many, many years ahead."
D'Acampo and Sirieix instead teamed up for the ITV series Gino and Fred: Emission Impossible last year, where they headed on an 'epic eco-friendly adventure' across Austria and Croatia.
Topics: Celebrity, Gino D'Acampo, Gordon Ramsay, ITV, UK News, TV and Film
Olivia Burke