John Barrowman has recently shared his struggles with being ostracized from the industry, stating that he can no longer secure auditions, in a candid interview with WalesOnline. The actor, known for his roles in Doctor Who and Torchwood, expressed feeling ‘blackballed’ following allegations of inappropriate behavior on set. Barrowman admitted that his career took a significant hit after the accusations surfaced in 2021, leading to a loss of work opportunities including his judge position on ITV’s Dancing On Ice. He highlighted the impact these events had on him, mentioning that he felt abandoned by many colleagues in the industry.
Speaking from his residence in Palm Springs, California, where he resides with his husband and parents, Barrowman opened up about the toll the past three years have taken on him. He emphasized feeling mistreated and expressed disappointment over the way individuals within the Doctor Who and Torchwood family distanced themselves from him. The actor expressed frustration at what he perceived as an unfair vilification driven by sensationalist news coverage and online scrutiny. Barrowman adamantly refuted the claims against him, asserting that the situation was blown out of proportion and misrepresented by the media.
In an effort to reclaim his narrative and reconnect with audiences, Barrowman is gearing up for his upcoming tour, Laid Bare, which will see him perform in various locations across Wales including Swansea, Carmarthen, Llandudno, and Newport. The actor hopes that by sharing his side of the story on stage, he can bring a fresh perspective to his career and address the challenges he has faced. Despite the setbacks, Barrowman remains optimistic about the tour, aiming to offer audiences a glimpse into his personal journey and experiences in a stripped-down, intimate setting.
Reflecting on his past actions, Barrowman acknowledged that societal norms have evolved, prompting him to reconsider his behavior on set. He admitted that while he previously felt comfortable being uninhibited on camera, he now recognises the importance of creating a respectful and professional environment for himself and his co-workers. The actor expressed regret over the impact of the allegations on his reputation and career, stating that he has been unfairly judged and excluded from opportunities within the industry.
Looking ahead, Barrowman maintains his love for the shows he has been a part of, indicating that his passion for projects like Doctor Who and Torchwood remains unaffected by recent events. Despite the challenges he has faced, the actor remains dedicated to his craft and is determined to move forward with resilience. By addressing his experiences openly on stage and engaging with audiences through candid discussions, Barrowman aims to rebuild connections and share his authentic self with fans. As he prepares to return to Wales, a place he holds dear, the actor expresses gratitude for the support he has received and looks forward to reconnecting with his Welsh audience through his upcoming tour.