John Barrowman’s health battles led to his sudden departure from Celebrity SAS: Who Dares Wins just 32 minutes after arriving at the base camp. The Doctor Who and Torchwood star, aged 57, was a participant in the sixth series of the Channel 4 reality show, which premiered on Sunday evening, showcasing celebrities undergoing SAS winter warfare training in the south islands of New Zealand.
During the show, Barrowman experienced health issues after the first challenge, resulting in him feeling unwell and ultimately deciding to quit. Despite his brief appearance on the show, Barrowman’s departure was notable as he became the first recruit to leave the course within such a short timeframe.
Barrowman later disclosed the reasons for his exit, citing his inability to stomach tofu and his struggles with travel sickness as contributing factors. Following an incident involving eating tofu and enduring a bumpy two-hour car journey, Barrowman felt it was necessary to withdraw from the programme to avoid jeopardising his well-being.
In addition to his physical health challenges, Barrowman also addressed past allegations regarding his behaviour on the sets of Doctor Who and Torchwood. He opened up about the mental health repercussions of these accusations, revealing his struggles and thoughts of suicide as a result of the distress caused by the allegations.
Despite facing personal battles, Barrowman expressed his determination to overcome obstacles and present his true self to the public through his participation in Celebrity SAS. The series features a diverse group of contestants, including well-known personalities like reality TV star Bianca Gascoigne, former England rugby captain Chris Robshaw, and comedian Shazia Mirza, among others.
As Celebrity SAS: Who Dares Wins unfolds, viewers can witness participants confronting their fears and vulnerabilities while striving to push their limits. The show airs on Channel 4 every Sunday and Monday, presenting a raw and intense portrayal of the challenges faced by the celebrities as they navigate the demanding environment of SAS training.
Overall, John Barrowman’s brief but impactful appearance on the show sheds light on the importance of prioritising one’s well-being and mental health, even in the face of high-pressure situations. His candid revelations and brave decision to withdraw serve as a reminder of the significance of self-care and self-acceptance in the pursuit of personal growth and resilience.