Commonwealth bosses: ‘Barrowman’s ‘gay kiss’ was scripted’

Commonwealth Games bosses have confirmed that John Barrowman’s “gay kiss” during the opening ceremony last night (July 23) was scripted.

Early on in the opening ceremony, which was watched by an estimated one billion viewers worldwide, the out gay actor/TV presenter bounded up to a man in a kilt, planted a kiss on his lips and then skipped off with him hand-in-hand.

Meanwhile, cries of “Here’s to equality in Scotland!” were heard in the background. Click here to watch a clip of the kiss.

In a press conference that took place this morning (July 24), our friends at Sports Mole report, Commonwealth Games CEO David Grevemberg acknowledged that the kiss was entirely scripted.

“[It was] a bit of Scottish welcoming flair to showcase a speed-date of Scotland very quickly,” Grevemberg explained. “We thought that this was something that accentuated the values of Scotland and the diversity of Scotland. It’s something we felt strongly about in showcasing everything that’s on offer.”

Grevemberg then added: “What we’re committed to as an organisation, we haven’t compromised yet, in terms of being – some people may say bold – but confident in our approach and in keeping with the values of the Commonwealth Games Federation.”

Meanwhile, Deputy PM Nick Clegg has urged the UK to promote LGBT rights to other Commonwealth nations during the games – click here for the full story.

Homosexuality is illegal in 42 of the 53 nations competing in the Commonwealth Games. Some of the participating nations, most notably Uganda, Brunei and Jamaica, have become especially notorious for their extreme anti-gay laws in recent years.

Watch a clip of Barrowman’s kiss being discussed at the press conference below:

[youtube height=”HEIGHT” width=”WIDTH”]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8rPwutUIJik[/youtube]