James Martin admits ‘lessons have been learned’ after ‘unfortunate incident’ at his home amid bullying claims
JAMES Martin has admitted “lessons have been learned” after an “unfortunate incident” at his home amid bullying claims.
The TV chef, 51, is at the centre of a storm after crew members allegedly complained about his behaviour on “multiple occasions”.
Concerns about how he treated production staff at Blue Marlin is said to have been raised during the recent filming of his travel cooking show James Martin‘s Spanish Adventure.
Allegations suggest he intimidated staff, which has since resulted in a warning from ITV bosses, it is understood.
According to US publication Deadline, Martin was “accused of berating people” and “reducing them to tears in front of other colleagues” in May this year.
The news outlet also alleged he was “changing schedules at the last minute, giving his team just a few hours of sleep before the following morning’s shoot” – which he reportedly arrived late to himself.
It is said to be the second time a clash has occurred after the TV personality’s home was wrecked during filming in 2018.
Blue Marlin took responsibility for a drain blockage when James Martin’s Saturday Morning was being filmed at the property.
The production company said Martin “responded emotionally, which he wholly regrets” after he allegedly launched into a foul-mouthed attack.
An ITV spokesman said discussions were organised between Blue Marlin and Martin to find out what actions were being taken following the claims.
They said: “Following a complaint we received in May from members of the Blue Marlin production team about the filming of James Martin’s Spanish Adventure, we contacted Blue Marlin to discuss these concerns and to understand how the issues raised were being addressed and what actions were being taken.
“As a result, we made a number of recommendations for Blue Marlin to implement as soon as possible, sharing best practice of some of our own relevant procedures around staff welfare and reiterating our Supplier Code of Conduct.”
Martin is a co-founder of the production company with Fiona Lindsay.
In a joint statement the pair said they “have taken on board ITV’s recommendations and their sharing of best practice, and are in the process of fully implementing”.
A Blue Marlin spokesperson said discussions have taken place with Martin and the team – ensuring “lessons have been learned”.
They said: “An unfortunate incident occurred after filming James Martin’s Saturday Morning in 2018 where James’ home was badly damaged.
“Blue Marlin Television accepted responsibility. James was shocked by what had happened and on reflection acknowledges he responded emotionally, which he wholly regrets.
“James apologises for any offence or upset caused, as he did at the time to the crew involved.
“Following this and some issues filming James Martin’s Spanish Adventures, James and Blue Marlin Television agree that lessons have been learned which have been discussed with members of the team and with ITV.
“Blue Marlin Television and James Martin have taken on board ITV’s recommendations and their sharing of best practice, and are in the process of fully implementing.”
The company added since the incident, they have continued to film over 500 shows at Martin’s home without problems.
They said: “Blue Marlin Television remains committed to ensuring the welfare of all those with whom they work is of the utmost priority.”