CFM News John Barrowman Packs Fans Into Amazing Las Vegas Comic Con

Article and photos copyright Suzanne Philips

Day 2 of the Amazing Las Vegas Comic Con was a big one as fans were waiting for their chance to meet “Torchwood” and “Arrow” star John Barrowman.  The actor did photo ops with fans, autograph signings, and a packed standing room only panel during the very full day. Barrowman made it a family affair bringing his mother and father and husband Scott along for the ride.

Barrowman’s panels are notorious for being raunchy and energetic and today’s panel was no exception.  His energy and comedy kept the audience laughing throughout the 45 minute panel.  Fans had questions for Barrowman ranging from his time on “Doctor Who” and “Torchwood”.  Below, Barrowman speaks about his time on those shows:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fwYavLUQCMs

Fans of course were excited to hear about Barrowman’s current project, playing Malcolm Merlyn on the CW’s hit show “Arrow”.  Barrowman calls Merlyn a “misunderstood hero” who does evil things based on trying to protect those that he loves.  He says that you know when Merlyn is upset when he smiles at someone.  The way that he plays the character, if you see him smile, you know the other character is in trouble! While he was unable to say too much about season 4 of the show, he did assure fans that they were going to be very happy with what DC has planned for characters like Merlyn, Oliver and Thea Queen and the Canary sisters.

John Barrowman was recently given an MBE (Member of the British Empire) which is given out by the Queen to a person for a particular achievement, in Barrowman’s case for his performing career and his charity work.  John speaks about taking his family to Buckingham Palace to receive his medal:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1yRiNUXBCII

Barrowman spoke about a meeting he had where the production team on a particular show asked him to not speak about being gay and not to talk about his husband, Scott in public and in interviews.  He came home after the meeting and told Scott about what they asked of him and Scott asked him what he thought about that.  Barrowman said that he had no problem portraying someone else onscreen but he didn’t want to have to be someone else in his real life.  Barrowman has been a huge supporter of gay rights for a long time and is an inspiration to many people in the community.  As Barrowman himself says “I don’t care what you are, I treat everyone the same”.

Season 4 of “Arrow” starts filming in July and you will have to wait until the fall to see new episodes, but if you want to catch Barrowman tomorrow, head out to the Amazing Las Vegas Comic Con at the South Point Hotel and Casino.  For more info visit http://www.amazinglasvegascomiccon.com/