The 'Curse' of Torchwood: Cast Endure Scandals, Feuds, and Personal Turmoil 20 Years On

Twenty years after its debut, the cast of the adult Doctor Who spin-off Torchwood has navigated a landscape marked by misconduct allegations, public feuds, and personal struggles. The show, known for its darker themes including cannibalism, murder, and sex, followed Captain Jack Harkness and his team of alien hunters.

John Barrowman, who portrayed the immortal Captain Jack Harkness, has faced significant public scrutiny following misconduct allegations. In 2021, he was accused of exposing himself to co-workers on the sets of Doctor Who and Torchwood between 2005 and 2011. This came to light during an investigation into his former co-star Noel Clarke. Consequently, Barrowman was dropped from his role as a judge on ITV's Dancing On Ice and stated he felt "blacklisted completely" from the entertainment industry, leading to depression and suicidal thoughts. Earlier this year, he faced criticism for perceived entitlement after complaining about a lack of pajamas on a business-class flight.

Barrowman has defended his past actions, asserting that "everybody was doing outrageous, silly things" and that "nobody complained" at the time. He denied intentionally flashing colleagues, explaining that any nudity occurred on closed sets, and any exposure to unexpected individuals was incidental. He described his past behavior as "stupid and silly" but not "outrageous."

Eve Myles, who played Gwen Cooper and appeared in all four series, has had a successful career in dramas such as Keeping Faith and The Crow Girl. However, in 2022, she was involved in a public dispute with Barrowman. After he commented on a video of Myles expressing fondness for him, fans accused him of "spewing rhetoric." Barrowman subsequently deleted his X account following backlash, with users urging him to address grievances privately.

James Marsters, known for his role as Captain John Hart, joined Torchwood for its second series. Marsters has experienced personal turmoil in recent years, including the dissolution of his marriage to Patricia Rahman in 2021 after a decade together. Their divorce proceedings, which involved property division and spousal support, were not finalized until February of this year. Marsters was previously married to Liane Davidson, with whom he has a son.

Gareth David Lloyd, who played the beloved character Ianto Jones, saw his on-screen romance with Captain Jack Harkness become a highlight for many viewers. Ianto's death in the third series, "Children of Earth," remains a poignant moment for fans. Lloyd has continued his involvement with the franchise through Big Finish audio dramas. This year, efforts by fans to maintain a tribute shrine to Ianto in Cardiff were halted due to maintenance at Mermaid Quay. While a new plaque is being considered, the dismantling of the shrine left its caretaker and fans devastated.