John Barrowman’s best-known roles are Captain Jack Harkness in Doctor Who/Torchwood (BBC), Sir Malcolm Murray in The CW’s Arrow, and as a judge on ITV’s Dancing on Ice.
Films
- Zero Dark ThirtyJeremy (voice, uncredited)2012
- The ProducersLead Tenor (uncredited)2005
- De-LovelyJack (uncredited)2004
- Shark Attack 3: MegalodonBen Carpenter2002
- MethodRobert2004
TV shows
- TorchwoodCaptain Jack Harkness2006–2011
- Doctor WhoCaptain Jack Harkness2005–2020
- ArrowMalcolm Merlyn / Dark Archer2012–2019
- Dancing on IceJudge2018–2022
- The FlashMalcolm Merlyn / Dark Archer2015–2016
- Legends of TomorrowMalcolm Merlyn / Dark Archer2016
- How Do You Solve a Problem Like Maria?Judge2006
- Any Dream Will DoJudge2007
- I’d Do AnythingJudge2008
- Tonight’s the NightPresenter2009
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About John Barrowman
John Barrowman is a Scottish-American actor, singer and entertainer, popular for his charismatic portrayal of the omnisexual time agent Captain Jack Harkness in Doctor Who and its spin-off Torchwood. He has also played comic-book patriarch Malcolm Merlyn in the Arrowverse and appeared in West End musicals and reality television.
FAQs
Is John Barrowman returning to Doctor Who?
As of 2025, no official plans have been announced. He last appeared as Captain Jack in the 2021 episode ‘Revolution of the Daleks’.
Is John Barrowman related to Carole Barrowman?
Yes, Carole Barrowman is his older sister and frequent co-author of novels.
Did John Barrowman play the violin in Torchwood?
No, that was a stunt double or sound effect; Barrowman does not play the violin in real life.
What is John Barrowman’s most famous stage role?
He originated the role of The Emcee in the 1998 Broadway revival of Cabaret, and also starred as Frank N Furter in The Rocky Horror Show.
Sources & where to watch: IMDb · Wikipedia · Where to watch (JustWatch UK) · Updated June 2026