John Barrowman has come under criticism after he posted a sobbing video while holding his dog, who had just died in his arms.
The former Doctor Who star cradled his Jack Russell in the short clip on Monday, as he wept over the fact the pup had been ‘waiting’ until he returned home from a fan convention so they could share his final moments.
The 58-year-old’s dog, who was named Captain Jack Harkness after the actor’s Torchwood character, was 18 years old.
The Scottish-American actor started the video with an apology to fans who had seen he was upset that day, saying: ‘It was really difficult. But I got home tonight and he was still with us.
‘And he waited until I got home and I held him, we put him to bed next to me and I held onto him and I felt his heart stop and now he’s gone.’
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Sitting next to his husband Scott Gill, the actor continued: ‘He died in my arms. I am sad but it is just the way I wanted it. He waited for me all day. He’s such a good boy. Thank you for all your support and all your patience for me.’
In the caption, he also paid tribute to the pooch, writing: ‘Captain Jack Harkness our beloved Jack Russell has gone.
‘He waited until I came home and he died peacefully in his dada’s arms within an hour of my return with Scott, Dixie and Tito around him.
‘He was a good boy, a loyal friend and our Jackamo for 18 years. We are very sad but grateful he died of old age and did not suffer.’
The video has been viewed over a million times on X, with several fans taken aback by the decision to film the vulnerable, upsetting moment and share it on social media.
Sarah questioned, ‘What is wrong with people?’ before adding: ‘I’m so sorry he lost his beloved pet but why are we filming ourselves sobbing with dead pets?’
Glen agreed in the comments, noting it would be better suited to ‘grieve in private’, while Rex added: ‘As a dog owner, I watched that (not all, very briefly) and thought strange behaviour.’
‘Having lost a number of dogs through my life I know the pain he is feeling. I’ve never once felt the urge to film it though,’ added @mrgreyvanman.
However, several fans shared their condolences with the actor on his post, which has received tens of thousands of likes.
‘To have 18 years of loyalty, a peaceful passing at home, and a final hour in your arms—that is the ultimate gift of love from a good boy. A beautiful farewell for a cherished friend,’ one wrote, as others said the video had left them similarly tearful.
It comes after the actor last year defended his alleged behaviour on set, having been accused of repeatedly exposing himself on the set of Doctor Who and Torchwood.
In an interview with STV’s Scotland Tonight, he insisted he has ‘no regrets’ over his conduct, which had left him ‘blacklisted completely’ from the entertainment industry.
Metro contacted John Barrowman’s representatives for comment.
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