John Barrowman’s husband slams ‘vicious trolls’ following exposure allegations
Ashley Banjo and Keith Lemon have also defended Torchwood star Barrowman following reports he's been dropped from Dancing On Ice.
Words: Jamie Tabberer; picture: Instagram/@scottmale
John Barrowman‘s husband John Gill has defended the star from “vicious trolls” following allegations he exposed himself to co-stars on the sets of Torchwood and Doctor Who.
Gill – who has been in a relationship with Barrowman for 27 years, and married him in 2013 – spoke out about media coverage and social media reaction to the allegations in an Instagram post on Tuesday (1 June).
His comments follow reports that Barrowman has been dropped as a judge from TV show Dancing On Ice in the wake of the scandal.
“A challenging three weeks”
Wrote Gill in a caption: “It’s been a ‘challenging’ 3 weeks for both of us, watching @JohnScotBarrowman get hounded in the press & viciously attacked by trolls. But mostly it’s been amazing how many wonderful people have rallied around in support.”
He added: “To all of you who have sent us lovely messages – THANK YOU!”
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Barrowman, meanwhile, said in a video message posted on Tuesday: “Hi everybody it’s John here and I just want to say thank you very much to all of my fan family and everybody who has reached out with the countless messages of support over the last few weeks.
“It has meant such a great deal to me and has really touched me to know that people are supporting me and standing by me and sending their love and all their appreciation and kind words.”
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TV personalities Ashley Banjo and Keith Lemon have also spoken out in support of Barrowman, with Lemon tweeted in response to his video: “Big salute John! Sending you magical powers,” while Banjo posted a fist bump and a heart emoji.
Witnesses cited in an investigation by The Guardian called the aforementioned incidents “larking about” and “joking” rather than sexually predatory behaviour.
Desperate Housewives actor Barrowman then admitted to “tomfoolery” when contacted by the outlet, and stressed his behaviour was never intended in a sexual nature.
In a statement, Barrowman added: “With the benefit of hindsight, I understand that upset may have been caused by my exuberant behaviour and I have apologised for this previously.
“Since my apology in November 2008, my understanding and behaviour have also changed.”