Gino D’Acampo says he feels ‘betrayed’ and ‘hurt’ by the allegations of ‘sexually inappropriate behaviour’ made against him.

The Italian celebrity chef, 48, has been rocked by multiple allegations of sexually inappropriate and intimidating behaviour over a 12-year period – claims which he denies.

And amid the scandal surrounding him, a source has told MailOnline that Gino has ‘instructed his legal team to fight the allegations with “whatever it takes” as he gears up for a fight to clear his name’.

The under fire TV star has also ‘insisted to friends that he is innocent and still believes he can continue to have a career’.

While recent reports state that ITV have pulled his shows from the schedules, the source added that Gino has vowed to ‘never work with ITV again’.

Gino is also set to ‘jet to the US later next week to work on a TV project’.

+13
View gallery

Gino D’Acampo says he feels ‘betrayed’ and ‘hurt’ by the allegations of ‘sexually inappropriate behaviour’ made against him

+13
View gallery

The Italian celebrity chef, 48, has been rocked by multiple allegations of sexually inappropriate and intimidating behaviour over a 12-year period – claims which he denies

MailOnline have contacted Gino’s representative for comment.

An investigation by ITV News found ‘dozens’ of allegations of misconduct against the chef on TV shows he worked on, with his behaviour described as ‘unacceptable’ and ‘distressing’ by those making accusations, according to the broadcaster.

According to ITV News, at least one production company was aware of repeated complaints from staff members about Gino’s behaviour – yet continued to work with him on further TV projects.

On Friday, ITV pulled all of Gino’s shows from its upcoming schedules, MailOnline revealed.

One woman, given the pseudonym Hannah, described a disturbing moment during a magazine shoot in 2011.

She claims that, in front of an entire crew, Gino made an explicit sexual comment, telling her he would ‘like to turn me over and f*** me up the a*** against the kitchen counter,’ leaving her humiliated.

‘I remember a ripple of laughter,’ she recalled, while others ‘looked nervously into their cups of tea’.

Hannah said the incident left her feeling ‘horror’ and ‘shock’ but admitted she was not surprised no one intervened.

+13
View gallery

Amid the scandal surrounding him, a source has told MailOnline that Gino has ‘instructed his legal team to fight the allegations with “whatever it takes” as he gears up for a fight to clear his name’

+13
View gallery

The under fire TV star has also ‘insisted to friends that he is innocent and still believes he can continue to have a career’

+13
View gallery

While recent reports state that ITV have pulled his shows from the schedules, the source added that Gino has vowed to ‘never work with ITV again’ [pictured with Holly Willoughby]

+13
View gallery

Natasha Kaplinsky and Gino D’Acampo on ‘Let’s Do Lunch with Gino’

Gino has firmly denied all allegations, calling them ‘deeply upsetting’.

His legal team said: ‘This allegation from almost 15 years ago has never, until now via a media request, been raised or put to Mr D’Acampo. He does not recall it, nor accept that it happened.’

Another woman, given the pseudonym Natalie, recounted an unsettling experience while briefing Gino for a location shoot.

‘He opened the door in his boxer shorts, nothing else,’ she claimed.

‘Then he jumped on the bed, put his leg up and made a crude reference to his private parts, joking about their size.’

Natalie described feeling ‘disgusted’ and accused the TV chef of using his position to behave inappropriately.

Gino’s legal team strongly refuted this version of events, stating: ‘To his knowledge, no such allegations have been made against him in relation to ‘Gino’s Italian Express’.

‘This is the first time – six years later – that he has been informed of these alleged incidents, which he categorically denies.’

In yet another claim, a former colleague alleged that in 2019, Gino aggressively confronted a young crew member over an ice cream.

‘I was present when Gino said to the runner, ‘If you don’t get me a Cornetto, I will f*** your girlfriend,’ the woman told ITV News.

+13
View gallery

An investigation by ITV News found ‘dozens’ of allegations of misconduct against the chef on TV shows he worked on, with his behaviour described as ‘unacceptable’ and ‘distressing’ by those making accusations, according to the broadcaster

+13
View gallery

According to ITV News, at least one production company was aware of repeated complaints from staff members about Gino’s behaviour – yet continued to work with him

+13
View gallery

It has since emerged that ITV have pulled Gino D’Acampo’s latest Italian odyssey show from its upcoming schedules , MailOnline can reveal on Friday

Controversial Gino D’Acampo moments amid ‘inappropriate’ claims

Another crew member who witnessed the incident said the remark had ‘stuck in my head for years’.

‘He was using his power to bully and intimidate us,’ she said. ‘For what? A cookery programme.’

Gino’s representatives responded, saying he was ‘mortified’ by the accusation and ‘does not recall this incident at all’.

A separate claim relates to the filming of Gordon, Gino and Fred’s Road Trip in 2018.

A woman, referred to as Lena, recalled: ‘Without saying hello or good morning, he just loudly announced he felt like f****** that morning.’

Another crew member claimed Gino made a crude comment about a female colleague’s chest, allegedly saying:

‘Shouldn’t we be talking about her t**? They’re perfect, like a mouthful.’

It has since emerged that Objective Media Group, the production company behind Gordon, Gino and Fred, was aware of complaints about Gino as early as 2018.

+13
View gallery

With ITV and production companies now facing questions about how they handled past complaints, the future of Gino’s TV career remains uncertain

One woman who worked on Gino’s Italian Express told ITV News: ‘His ‘cheeky chappy’ persona allows him to hide in plain sight. If I see him on TV, I have to leave the room.’

Gino, who has built a multi-million-pound career on his larger-than-life personality, has denied all allegations against him.

His legal team said: ‘No-one has ever made these complaints directly to Mr D’Acampo. He does not recall making these comments, nor does he accept that they were made.’

ITV News has seen emails from December 2024 reportedly confirming concerns were raised with Objective Media Group over Gino’s behaviour.

In response, the company admitted that he was ‘spoken to’ about his off-screen conduct and ‘bespoke training’ was provided.

A separate statement from ITV stressed: ‘We can categorically confirm that this kind of behaviour is not tolerated by ITV.’

With ITV and production companies now facing questions about how they handled past complaints, the future of Gino’s TV career remains uncertain.

For now, the TV presenter insists he has been unfairly accused.

Michael McIntyre wakes up Gino and his wife while they are in BED

+13
View gallery

Gino, who has built a multi-million-pound career on his larger-than-life personality, has denied all allegations against him

Responding to the allegations, in a statement to ITV News, Gino D’Acampo said: ‘I have been told by ITN news that allegations have been made about me acting inappropriately, some dating back over ten years ago.

‘I have never been made aware of these matters previously and the allegations are firmly denied. I would not do anything that I thought would upset or distress anyone. This is simply not in my nature. I do not recognise the version of events being put to me.

‘Not only have these allegations never been raised with me before, I have been repeatedly supported by executives at the highest level and was commissioned on prime-time programmes during the period in which it is now suggested I was acting inappropriately.

‘I am a father, husband and have worked with well over 1,500 people on around 80 productions in my career, which I have been so proud of. I take such matters extremely seriously and the suggestion that I have acted in an improper way against is deeply upsetting.’

MailOnline contacted Gino’s representatives for comment at the time.

SCANDAL-HIT telly chef Gino D’Acampo made “vil3” s3xual remarks about Holly Willoughby to a horrified woman — but her complaints to ITV were ignored.

She said there was no probe into her 2018 claims about “vulg@r cretin” Gino.

Your info will be used in accordance with our Privacy Policy

6

Gino D’Acampo has been branded ‘crude and vil3’ for s3xual remarks he made about TV’s Holly WilloughbyCredit: Rex

6

Investigations have now uncovered dozens of allegations against the TV chefCredit: Rex

6

Holly and Gino on This Morning in 2023Credit: Rex
The telly chef is said to have told the woman that he was often asked which of Holly and Fearne Cotton he would most like to sleep with.

He told her: “If I could put the face of one on the body of the other then maybe, but I’d probably choose Holly because I’d have more fun with her.”

The woman said: “I was disgusted by what he said and how he behaved. He was crude and vil3. He’s a vulg@r cretin.”

She warned ITV about him as long ago as 2018.

In an email to chief executive Carolyn McCall, she wrote: “He is certainly not a man reflecting integrity or honesty or family values.

“One day he will be outed by many, many more and his associations will be running for the hills to disassociate themselves with him.”

The woman added: “I have a voice and if I can help stop this happening to others, I will.”

She also contacted This Morning, Channel 5, the BBC and other production companies involved with him.

The woman, who asked not to be identified, said: “Both ITV and the BBC came back sharply, essentially telling me to go away. It hadn’t happened during the production of any show, therefore it didn’t matter.

“ITV were specifically horrid and even cast doubt on what I was saying. They were cowardly.

Bridget Jones fans horrified as trailer for fourth film reveals huge character is killed off

Gino D’Acampo is a ghastly, full of himself little pig – why didn’t ITV do anything, says his I’m A Celeb co-star Kim Woodburn
“I haven’t watched TV since the pandemic because I didn’t want to see his face on TV.

“He was given a platform by TV executives who knew and were warned about his behaviour towards women.”

Investigations have now uncovered dozens of allegations against the married dad of three.

ITV has pulled all of his shows but is under growing pressure to explain what they knew, when they knew it and why no action was taken sooner.

Gino, 48, has “firmly denied” the allegations.

Channel 5 said it had been contacted in 2018 about an allegation “that did not relate to conduct on a Channel 5 production or programme”.

The BBC said it could not locate the woman’s complaint.

 

ITV declined to comment.

Holly appeared on ITV1 last night, hosting Dancing on Ice alongside Stephen Mulhern.

6

Gino also made vulg@r comments about Fearne CottonCredit: Rex

6

Gino, 48, has ‘firmly denied’ the allegationsCredit: Rex

6

Holly appeared on ITV1 last night hosting Dancing on IceCredit: Rex

Chef up to talks to ITV

By Ellie Henman

GINO D’Acampo is willing to meet ITV bosses and claims he is “100 per cent innocent”.

A source close to the star, whose career is hanging by a thread, said he had no intention of stepping back from showbiz.

They said: “He’s told family, friends and people he works with he’s done nothing to be ashamed of or worried about.”

Meanwhile, we can reveal Gino is likely to ditch plans to fly to the Caribbean for filming this month while in “crisis mode”.

The Loose Women favourite has spoken out about a terrifying health scare after she collapsed at home

Loose Women favourite Andrea McLean has bravely spoken out about a harrowing health ordeal that led to her being rushed to hospital after she collapsed at home.

The 54-year-old, who bid farewell to the ITV chat show in 2020, disclosed that she was battling flu-like symptoms last December when her condition dramatically deteriorated.

In a candid post on her blog, Andrea recounted how she initially brushed off her sickness as just another seasonal lurgy, expecting it to clear up within a week.

But after a week of unyielding fever, shivers, and chest discomfort, she spotted an alarming clue her urine had turned a dark shade of brown.

Her situation escalated when she fainted in her bathroom and remained on the floor for an hour until her husband Nick Feeney discovered her, reports the Express.

Heeding their GP’s urgent advice, Andrea and Nick dialled 999, and paramedics swiftly made their way to their residence. She recounted: “The ambulance team were amazing. My blood pressure was so low I couldn’t stand, and I was in a lot of pain. To be honest, I was barely aware of what was happening.”

Andrea was seriously unwell ( 
Image:
(Image: Getty))
Upon reaching the hospital, Andrea underwent a series of tests, including X-rays and CT scans, which exposed the gravity of her illness. She was struck with a diagnosis of severe pneumonia, acute kidney injury, and sepsis a trio of potentially fatal conditions that demanded immediate medical intervention.

“Things happened quickly; drips, super-strong antibiotics via IV and orally, and I was transferred to the Emergency Assessment Ward,” she detailed.

Andrea’s husband called 999 while she was waiting to be seen at a doctors surgery ( 
Image:
(Image: Getty))
The TV host endured a harrowing few days in hospital, which she described as a “fraught” ordeal. She detailed the sensory assault from the distressing sounds of fellow patients, sleep-deprived nights, and the relentless agony she suffered.

Her initial night in the respiratory ward was particularly harrowing. Andrea found herself in a bay with elderly patients, some battling dementia, and recounted a terrifying incident where one woman aggressively accosted her at night, tugging fiercely at the privacy curtain.

Andrea starred on Loose Women for 13 years ( 
Image:
ITV)During her stay, Andrea grappled with fatigue, severe discomfort, and a diminished appetite. Her sense of taste became overly sensitive, rendering eating an unenjoyable experience.

She was eventually prescribed stronger painkillers, which brought some solace. Desperate for a more tranquil recovery space, she fought to be allowed home.

After discussions with medical staff, she secured permission to spend nights at home, while still attending the hospital daily for IV antibiotics and check-ups.

Reflecting on the experience, Andrea is profoundly thankful for her husband’s steadfast support. She shared: “Nick’s life stopped for the first few weeks of the new year too. He drove me to hospital every day, sat outside for hours, then drove me home, made dinner, and put me to bed. And then did it all again the next day.”

Five weeks into her recovery, Andrea has confessed she’s still on the mend and regaining her strength. Although the TV star hoped she’d bounce back swiftly, a joyful chuckle with Nick brought home just how far she’s come.

She remarked: “We both looked at each other, shocked at the realisation that it was the first time I’d belly laughed for weeks.”

Andrea McLean, 55, was diagnosed with acute kidney injury, sepsis and severe pneumonia after brushing off her symptoms as just flu

Andrea McLean has issued a heartfelt message to fans following her life-threatening health ordeal. The Loose Women star, 55, was suffering from severe flu-like symptoms before she collapsed in the bathroom last December.

After being rushed to hospital, doctors revealed that she not only had acute kidney injury and sepsis, but severe pneumonia too, having lost ‘80% capacity’ in one lung. She stayed here for several days, describing the experience as a ‘sensory overload’ with bright lights, screams, shouting and the ‘smell of poo’ almost constant.Now, Andrea is back at home, opening up about her diagnosis and recovery journey in a candid Substack blog on Sunday. Although life isn’t quite ‘back to normal’ yet, she expressed gratitude for the well-wishes she received and shared a selfie on Instagram.

“Just wanted to say thank you for being so nice,” she said to her 300,000 followers, before adding: “This photo was taken 60 seconds ago. I didn’t realise my hair looks so crazy and my chin gets so red when I rest it on my hand.”

Unsurprisingly, her snap was soon flooded with even more supportive messages, including one from TV show host, Lisa Snowdon. She wrote: “Huge love & hugs darling.”

Meanwhile, another user penned: “So sorry to read how poorly you have been and your adventurous stay in hospital. Wishing you a full recovery very soon,” as someone else commented: “Get well soon. Sounds awful. Sending love and best wishes.”

Beyond her diagnosis, the star was also left ‘terrified’ by the behaviour of other patients in her ward including six women who appeared to have dementia. A few of whom were incredibly distressed by her presence, with one demanding to know why Andrea was there and repeatedly yanking on her ‘flimsy’ bed curtain.

Andrea was suffering from severe flu-like symptoms before she collapsed in the bathroom ( 
Image:
Getty Images)

She struggled to sleep at all in this ward and even asked hospital staff if she could continue treatment at home. While there was some pushback on this, medics eventually said she could go there to sleep but must return every day for drips, tests and medication.

“It’s now February, and I’m still not well enough to handle normal stuff like getting up and rushing out the door to do the jobs I’d been booked to do,” Andrea wrote in her blog. “…because every part of that process would end with me falling down, or at the very least sitting on a tube station floor feeling very unwell and embarrassed at the stares.

“I’m still having ‘funny turns’ while out for a walk, or attempting the mildest of exercise. It means I haven’t really started 2025 yet.”

Kelle Bryan defends Gino D’Acampo after controversial Loose Women appearance amid scandal

Another star has branded Gino “vile” after working with him previously

Lottie Hulme
Jake Penkethman

Published: 20:58, 10 Feb 2025
Updated: 21:43, 10 Feb 2025

 

 

KELLE Bryan has defended under-fire Gino D’Acampo after he made a controversial appearance on Loose Women last year.

Eternal singer Kelle was on the Loose Women panel in 2024 when dad-of-three Gino confessed he “doesn’t like” children.

Sign up for the TV newsletter

Your info will be used in accordance with our Privacy Policy

3

Gino made a controversial appearance on Loose Women last yearCredit: Rex

3

But Kelle has jumped to the under-fire chef’s defenceCredit: Getty

3

She insisted Gino is a ‘real pleasure’Credit: Rex
Last week has the chef was accused of sexual misconduct by multiple women who came forward to ITV News.

But Kelle has spoken out in defence of Gino, insisting he’s a “real pleasure” to be around.

Speaking exclusively to The Sun at the TV Choice awards, Hollyoaks star Kelle said of the his chaotic appearance: “To be honest, Gino’s always been funny and a big character.

“We’ve never experienced any issues with him – it’s always been a real pleasure.”

Their investigation into Gino found there were multiple claims of “unacceptable,” “distressing” and “horrendous” treatment while working with the TV star over more than 12 years.

And someone who doesn’t share Kelle’s opinion of Gino is Kim Woodburn, who did I’m a Celebrity with him in 2009.

Speaking to us this week, she branded him “vile”.

Kim claimed: “His language to the crew was disgusting. He cheated, called this producer a ‘f***ing bastard’ and ‘c***’, then refused to leave the set.

“We had to stop filming while two men took him by the arm and forced him off the set back to the camp. They should have thrown him off the show. Ghastly it was.

“He treated crew like garbage, he didn’t care. He’s reduced many people to tears over the years.”

Play Video

Horrifying moment Gino D’Acampo offers to ‘s— Fearne Cotton’s breasts’ in stomach-churning unearthed clip
Gino has denied all allegations put to him by ITV News, saying they are: “simply not in my nature”.

He added: “I do not recognise the version of events being put to me.”

 

Meghan Markle joined Prince Harry at the Invictus Games in Canada where she was seen wearing a royal signet ring – and we want to hear your thoughts on the Sussexes rejoining the Firm

Meghan Markle was spotted wearing a royal signet ring during her visit to the Invictus Games in Canada, and we want to know if you would like to see the Sussexes rejoin the Firm?

The new piece of jewellery was sported on Meghan’s right hand, and boasts the couple’s joint cypher which was unveiled after their marriage in 2018. The personalised monogram consists of the letters ‘H’ and ‘M’ in cursive, with a coronet above featuring two cross pattées, four fleurs-de-lys, and two strawberry leaves.

The emblem starred on their previous Sussex Royal website and social media accounts until they stepped down from royal duties in 2020. It was also used on their letterheads until 2021, before being replaced by their Archewell logo.

Eagle-eyed royal fans have highlighted how the signet ring resembles the one worn by Harry’s father, King Charles. It comes as Meghan joined Harry for the Invictus Games, a tournament founded in 2014 by the Duke of Sussex to support wounded, injured and sick service personnel and veterans.

The international multi-sport event will head back to the UK for the 2027 edition, but one royal expert is convinced Meghan will not attend. Speaking to The Mirror US, host of the To Di For Daily podcast Kinsey Schofield said: “I currently lean towards Meghan not attending Prince Harry’s 2027 Invictus Games in the UK because we have seen Meghan prioritise herself and her mental health over the last few years.

“I know that Meghan is currently not comfortable with the idea of returning to the UK. Prince Harry’s security concerns are a huge reason and compliment Meghan’s media insecurity. She fears returning and being rejected, booed. She feels vulnerable there.

The Duchess hasn’t returned to the UK since Queen Elizabeth II’s funeral in 2022, and has skipped a number of royal milestones over the past five years, including the King’s coronation. After stepping down from the Firm, the Sussexes moved to Montecito, where they now reside with their two children, Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet.

The expert added: “I do not believe that Meghan has any desire to return to the UK anytime soon. She felt freshly attacked after being asked to stay behind in the last few hours of the Queen’s life… then was furious months later when they received word that Frogmouth Cottage would no longer be their UK base. She feels defenseless in the UK and unwelcome.”

In his book Endgame, author Omid Scobie claimed that Meghan “never wants to set foot” in the UK again, adding that she “doesn’t want anything to do” with the Firm. Since being spotted donning her royal cypher, we want to know if you’d like to see Harry and Meghan rejoin the Royal Family. Vote in our poll HERE to have your say.

King Charles and Queen Camilla travelled to Middlesbrough today for a royal away day where they carried out a traditional walkabout – and even met a lady celebrating her 100th birthday

King Charles left wellwishers stunned as he defiantly faced a small group of protestors on a royal walkabout.

The monarch and Queen Camilla had been visiting Middlesbrough on Teesside for what’s known as a royal ‘awayday’ to Middlesbrough, packing in four engagements. At the end of the day, they undertook a traditional walkabout in the town. Many were waving flags and cheering, while others had dressed up in union flag outfits or dressed up their dogs. The King and Queen spent 20 minutes walking up and down, shaking hands with members of the throng.

Among those in the crowd was a small demonstration of republican campaigners waving anti-monarchist flags but the King decided to face them head-on, walking directly up to them and continuing shaking the hands of the well-wishers in front of them, much to the delight of the crowd.

King Charles with Rona Grafton who turns 100 today ( 
Image:
Andy Commins / Daily Mirror)
Julie Parker, 65, said she was ‘overjoyed’. “I had been waiting here since 11am [three hours] to see him and then that lot [Republic] turned up behind me and started waving their flags. Everyone has a right to their opinion but I do think they could have picked a better time and place and we didn’t think the King would come near us,” she said.

“But he did! And we got to say hello. He’s a remarkable man, he really is. We have a lot of admiration for him.” Also on the walkabout, the King made the day of a centenarian who was celebrating her 100th birthday today – by personally handing her a card from himself and the Queen.

He was introduced to Rona Grafton who had been waiting patiently to meet him. He bent down and shook her hand and said: “A very, very happy birthday. Here’s a card from both of us.” Touching Queen Camilla’s shoulder, he repeated: “From both of us.” The Queen said: “A very happy birthday.”

King Charles meets wellwishers next to anti-monarchy protestors in Middlesbrough today ( 
Image:
Andy Commins / Daily Mirror)
After moving down the line the King got into his waiting State Bentley with the Queen but had only got a few yards down the road when he saw how far the crowds stretched and asked his driver to stop.

He and Camilla got out again to huge cheers, with the couple insisting on shaking hands right the way down to the end of the street. Paul and Shirley Williams said they were shocked to see him stop.

Taonga: The Island Farm
Play Now
The most relaxing Farm Game. No Install

Motley FoolCEO says this is worth 27 Nvidias

by Taboola

“We thought we wouldn’t get the chance and that maybe his car would slow down and he would wave out of the window,” said Paul. “We couldn’t believe it when they got out. He came up to me and asked me how he was. Given everything he has been through I couldn’t believe it. How kind. I asked him how he was feeling and he said he was doing well.”

Val Haskins, 64, said the king stopped and admired her Union Jack coat. “He said I looked very patriotic,” she said. I shook his hand. It was absolutely mint.”

The King during a visit to SeAH Wind’s XXXL offshore turbine base factory ( 
Image:
PA)

Her friend Elaine Dunn, 67, added: “We love King Charles, we really do. He’s a good man. We are so delighted he has got the chance to show the nation the kind of man he is after the Queen died. He cares about his people, he really does. It was a lovely moment and I can’t believe we got the chance to speak to him.”

Earlier, the King said that his “skiing days are behind me” as he inspected a Swiss machine assisting in the production of wind turbines close to the town. During a visit to the world’s largest offshore wind monopile factory, King Charles inspected and switched on a newly imported Swiss-made calibration roll machine.

Charles, 76, discussed his favoured alpine sport with machinery expert Avzi Jusufi, who is temporarily in England from Basel, Switzerland, to install them in the SeAH Wind factory. Speaking to Jusufi about his home country, the King, who has regularly skied in the Swiss resort Klosters over the years, told him: “I think my skiing days are behind me.”

He made the comments while wearing a hard hat and protective high-vis gear and inspecting the process of making the structural support for wind turbines. As part of the visit, the King toured the SeAH Wind monopile factory in Teesside’s Freeport, near Redcar, which is due for completion later this year. At the same time, the Queen undertook a literary engagement elsewhere.

Prince Harry is halfway through his beloved Invictus Games, which are being hosted in Canada, and now he is flying solo after Meghan Markle left the event to fly back home to California

The 2025 Invictus Games are at its halfway point – and now Prince Harry is flying solo.

After putting on a loved-up display with wife Meghan Markle during the opening ceremony and then appearing inseparable during the first few days of the tournament, the Duke waved goodbye to the Duchess of Sussex and she is now back home to California with their two children, Archie and Lilibet.

Aides had been keeping Meghan’s travel plans under wraps for security reasons – it is understood it had always been planned she would leave the Games early. However, Harry is expected to stay at the Games until after the closing ceremony this Sunday.

After returning to sunny Montecito, Meghan posted a photo of Invictus themed goodies she took home for the kids, including green-coloured shirts with their names on. The haul also included an Invictus Games related teddy and a number of sweets and chocolates. Writing on her Instagram, Meghan said: “A taste of Canada and The Invictus Games for our little ones! Cheering you on from home!”.

Despite the couple now spending the next few days apart, including Valentine’s Day, it hasn’t stopped several bombshells from emerging from their trip to Vancouver and Whistler. Here we look at the latest revelations from the event – including Meghan’s hidden message to the Royal Family during the visit…

Secret date night

After spending the first few days of the Games in Vancouver, the Sussexes then moved on to Whistler, where they met up with celeb pals Michael Buble and his wife Luisana Lopilato.

Prince Harry with singer Michael Buble ( 
Image:
Humphrey Nemar)
And the foursome couldn’t resist having a secret date night at a special place for Harry and Meghan. They all went to Whistler restaurant Il Caminetto and spent over two hours tucking into delicious food. The Duke and Duchess previously visited the restaurant on Valentine’s Day last year.

At the dinner Meghan wore a pair of earrings that were a gift from her husband with a Carolina Herrera cape and Aquazzura pumps, having changed out of the cream Mackage jacket and Sorell snow boots she wore all Monday afternoon.

It was Meghan and Harry’s second time dining with friends Michael and Luisana since the Games began. They all enjoyed a low-key date night on Saturday at Vij’s Indian, with the restaurant’s chef, Vikram Vij, taking to social media to praise their visit. He wrote: “Another incredible night at Vij’s. When food brings people together, magic happens! We were honoured to once again welcome Prince Harry, Meghan Markle, Michael Bublé, and Luisana Lopilato for another unforgettable evening at Vij’s.”

Meghan’s shock

However, it wasn’t all relaxed dinners with pals as the Sussexes also welcomed the hundreds of competitors to Whistler for the first-ever winter sports events at the Invictus Games.

Harry and Meghan attended a special ceremony in Vancouver where Harry was introduced on stage by Michael Buble, who excited the 1,000-strong crowd with a rendition of Feeling Good. Welcoming Harry on stage, Canadian singer Michael said: “I know how difficult something like this is, so I wanted to make sure I did this right. Without the incredible effort of this young man, none of this would have happened, so please welcome my friend, Prince Harry.”

Harry joked that Meghan was going to sing ( 
Image:
Humphrey Nemar/staff Photographer)
Meghan joined Harry on stage at the end of his speech before he joked: “Now she’s going to sing!” leaving his wife horrified. However, according to body language expert Judi James, the pair seem to be in tune with their fun sides. She told the Mirror : “Harry loves playful behaviour and banter, but he usually adopts a different tone with Meghan, sticking to more romantic narratives.

“Here though he brings her into his routine with a flapping hand that suggests good humour rather than any royal graciousness. There is some synchronicity here though as she actually seems pretty much in tune with his more fun side.

“At first there is the usual mutual hugging, and Meghan shows empathy by rubbing Harry’s hand to thaw it out in the cold air. But when he jokes about her singing, her response is speedy as she looks shocked but then equally playful.

“The last image of the pair leaning forward into the mic to take their goodbyes is one of the better images of them working as an upbeat, casual and relaxed team of two.”

Hair-raising experience

Meanwhile, Meghan did leave the winter sports to the competitors, she also got involved herself by trying her hand at tubing down a snowy slope.

Meghan prepares to have a go at tubing ( 
Image:
meghan/Instagram)

Meghan slides down the snow run ( 
Image:
meghan/Instagram)She shared a clip on her Instagram Stories screaming as she spins down the slope while seated in a purple inflatable inner tube. In earlier clips, she could be seen walking hand-in-hand with Harry towards the slope, before being given instructions about her tubing run.

Meghan can then be heard asking about “keeping your body weight back” on the inflatable, before saying “No, I really don’t want to do it” during a countdown.

Meghan’s bold message to royals

And in another eye-raising move by Meghan she appeared to flash her royal cypher – despite previously ditching it.

Eagle-eyed royal watchers spotted that at Invictus Games in Canada, the Duchess of Sussex had been sporting a brand new signet ring on her pinky finger on her right hand.

Royal watchers noticed Meghan wearing a new signet ring ( 
Image:
WireImage)

It appears the ring features Harry and Meghan’s royal cypher ( 
Image:
WireImage)
And it seems that the new piece of jewellery is engraved with Prince Harry and Meghan’s joint cypher that they unveiled when they married back in 2018. The monogram is made up of the letters ‘H’ and ‘M’ in cursive writing. The logo is topped with a coronet with two cross pattées, four fleurs-de-lys and two strawberry leaves.

The monogram was used on their previous Sussex Royal website and social media accounts – and even after they dramatically quit as working royals back in 2020, they continued to use the logo on their letterheads.

Meghan isn’t the only royal to wear a pinky finger signet ring. King Charles also wears one with the Prince of Wales feathers and he gifted one to Princess Diana the night before their wedding in 1981.

Early exit

But despite appearing as close as ever, it emerged that Meghan didn’t plan to stay for the full duration of the Games when it was confirmed yesterday she would be heading back to California.

The couple left their children Archie and Lilibet behind at home in Montecito and after five days away, the Duchess made the decision to get back to her children. The Games have come after a tough time for the Sussexes, who were branded ‘disaster tourists’ in the wake of visiting victims of California wildfires. They were also the subject of a scathing Vanity Fair article about what it is really like to work for them.

Meghan left the Games yesterday ( 
Image:
Humphrey Nemar/staff Photographer.)
And according to PR expert Edward Coram James, the CEO of Go Up, Meghan should have rethought going to the Invictus Games altogether. He told the Mirror: “Meghan should leave the Invictus Games to Harry. It’s his project, and he’s more than capable of drumming up support and publicity for this incredible cause. Their joint brand has become tainted over the years — not through any fault of their own, but due to woeful PR.

“Meghan’s presence was always going to be a lose-lose situation — damned if she did, damned if she didn’t. But ultimately, it’s a distraction for many people. That said, from a PR standpoint, she handled it well. She was engaged but not overbearing, affectionate but not too performative. Still, she needs to recognise that no matter what she does, her critics will say she’s making it about herself.”

Harry’s telling three words

Meanwhile, Harry revealed how he felt about having Meghan Markle “by my side” during his Invictus Games – just days before she flew home without him.

And speaking to PEOPLE magazine before Meghan flew home, the Duke of Sussex revealed what it was like to have her with him at the event. He said: “To have my wife here supporting me is amazing. I love that she’s by my side. It’s such an important piece to this whole adventure.”

Meanwhile, Harry also opened up about Archie and Lilibet and how they are also ‘fascinated’ by the event for sick and injured service personnel. He added: “It’s a very interesting conversation to have with your kids — to explain why that person is missing a leg, why that person is missing an arm, why do they look the way they do. It’s challenging but important.

“Our kids are still so young, but Archie especially is asking those questions. I’m constantly trying to make sure that I get it right in explaining what’s happened to [the competitors] and what we do at Invictus to try to make their lives better and give them a chance to redefine themselves.”

Donald Trump took another swipe at Prince Harry and Meghan Markle after ruling out deporting the Duke of Sussex from the United States – and an insider has revealed how the comments reportedly went down at Buckingham Palace

A royal insider has revealed how Donald Trump’s savage swipe at Prince Harry and Meghan Markle will have gone down with King Charles.

The US president declared several days ago that he had no plans to deport Harry from the United States amid an ongoing battle over his visa application after questions were raised over why Harry was allowed into the US after admitting to taking drugs in his memoir Spare

But in a brutal dig, Trump said he would not deport the prince because he claimed he had “enough problems” with Meghan, describing her as “terrible”. It comes amid a war of words between Trump and the Sussexes, with Meghan previously calling the now-president misogynistic and Trump saying he was “no fan” of the Duchess.

Harry and Meghan at the Invictus Games in Whistler this week ( 
Image:
Humphrey Nemar)
And now a royal source has revealed that Trump’s stance when it comes to Harry’s immigration status might actually be of relief to the King, who once expressed his love for his son and daughter-in-law as they “build their lives overseas”.

The insider told the Daily Mail: “The fact is that Harry and Meghan are a source of strain and worry for His Majesty,’ a royal source tells me. ‘While he is sorry that he does not have a relationship with his grandchildren in America, it is easier for his peace of mind that there’s an ocean between him and Harry.”

It comes after last week when a judge in the US hinted that he is open to the possibility of releasing some of the sealed documents from Harry’s US visa application. Judge Carl Nichols has seen secret records revealing details of Harry’s visa status in the US, but they are currently sealed. The latest development in the two-year legal battle saw the judge explain in a Washington DC hearing last week that he wanted “maximum disclosure as long as it doesn’t violate privacy.”

US President Donald Trump ( 
Image:
AFP via Getty Images)

The long-running case was sparked when conservative Washington DC think tank The Heritage Foundation questioned why Harry was allowed into the US in 2020 after he admitted in his book Spare taking cocaine, marijuana and psychedelic mushrooms.

The think tank has argued that Harry either received special treatment from the Biden administration or had lied on his immigration forms. It requested for the release of his visa records under the Freedom of Information Act, arguing that the prince should not have received a visa due to a history of drug use, but the request was rejected by the DHS.

US visa applications specifically ask the individual about current and past drug use, which can have a detrimental impact on the progress of the application. Prolific drug use can lead to applications being rejected, however, immigration officers use their discretion against a range of factors. Omitting information or lying is deemed enough grounds to have a visa revoked, though there is no suggestion that Harry has lied.

King Charles and Queen Camilla are expected to head to both America and Canada next year on their biggest royal tour yet and will be deployed to help with diplomatic relations with Donald Trump

The King and Queen are to be deployed on their biggest royal tour yet – a “charm offensive” in the USA.

Charles and Camilla are expected to head to America and Canada, in a jaunt our government hopes will help diplomatic relations with Donald Trump. The royals will first be deployed to Canada, Charles’ first visit to the British realm as monarch, before being welcomed to the US by President Trump.

Next year is also the 250th anniversary of American Independence, which will be celebrated across the nation on July 4, 2026. Sources close to the planning say discussions between governments have already begun, with an official invitation from Washington expected imminently.

Charles with Trump and First Lady Melania at Clarence House in 2019 ( 
Image:
POOL/AFP via Getty Images)
The Mirror understands both North American tours will be agreed for the first half of next year, most likely the Spring. In line with the King’s continued cancer treatment, a US visit by the Prince and Princess of Wales has been earmarked as a contingency, although it is the preference to host Their Majesties, sources said.

King Charles arrives at the French Senate

It will be the first time a British monarch has visited the United States since 2007, the last of five royal tours the late Queen Elizabeth II undertook. As Prince of Wales, Charles undertook more than 20 official visits to the US. The King’s most senior aides will be key to developing the framework for the highly anticipated trip.

Buckingham Palace is understood to be “overwhelmingly keen” on the tour and is committed to working with the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) for the plans, sources suggest. A government source said: “This will undoubtedly be the biggest tour of the King’s reign so far, a huge undertaking for a British monarch to be hosted in the United States.

King Charles is expected to be welcomed in the USA by Trump next year ( 
Image:
Getty Images)
“Americans love the British royal family and it is a great opportunity for both sides to reaffirm the special relationship in such an important and historic year for the US. The King has been especially keen to travel to Canada, a country and people he holds so much affection for, it will be a charm offensive on both sides.”

However, the palace last night remained tight-lipped over the royal tour plans, with one palace source remarking: “There are no current dates in the diary for Their Majesties to tour either Canada or the USA, or active Palace planning taking place for either option.”

The Royal Visits Committee, on which representatives from Buckingham Palace and Kensington Palace sit alongside Foreign Office officials, has not yet met to discuss the plans, but it is understood to be on the agenda during the next quarterly meeting. The UK government is still open to plans to host President Trump on an official state visit at some stage throughout his five-year term, but conversations with the White House have already gathered pace for the King to meet Trump on his turf.

It was reported this week how the King, described as “one of life’s great letter writers” has kept up his personal correspondence with the former president. The Telegraph this week revealed how Charles had posted “a hand-written missive every now and then to the delight of Trump and his wife Melania”.

Prince William during a meeting with Donald Trump in Paris in December ( 
Image:
Getty Images)A royal source said: “It is clear there is warmth and respect for the office from both the King and President Trump. There is no clearer demonstration of soft diplomacy in action. It will be a huge success.” Trump was hosted in 2019 for an official State Visit where Charles undertook the then-Prince of Wales-level duties at Buckingham Palace.

After his triumphant return to the White House was confirmed in November, the incoming president also met heir to the throne Prince William in December, during a whistlestop trip to Paris for the reopening of Notre Dame cathedral following the devastating fire in 2019.

Trump described William, 42, as “really very handsome” while praising him for doing a “fantastic job”, both before and after their 40-minute meeting at the British ambassador’s residence. As King, Charles has already undertaken official visits to Germany, Romania, France, Kenya, Dubai, Australia, Samoa and Poland.

As revealed by the Mirror, his spring tour with the Queen is to Italy where he will meet the Pope in April. Following his successful trip to Australia and Samoa in October, palace aides said the King would return to a “full schedule” of regular overseas trips this year after the hiatus from official foreign duties he has taken since his cancer diagnosis.

Royal sources say the King has been keen to travel to Canada for “a long time”. Plans for his first tour of Canada as head of state were set for May 2024, but were delayed due to his cancer diagnosis. This yeah he was prohibited from an official visit as the country is undertaking national elections.

As Prince of Wales and Duchess of Cornwall, the couple last visited Canada in 2022 to celebrate Queen Elizabeth II’s Platinum Jubilee. Buckingham Palace did not comment.