PLAY ON

Actor John Barrowman Kicks Off Commonwealth Games With Big Gay Smooch

CGJBWhile most Americans have never heard of the Commonwealth Games (it’s like a less exciting Olympics among the Commonwealth of Nations — mostly territories of the former British Empire), homophobia has taken center stage ahead of the games in Glasgow.

42 of the 53 member countries of the Commonwealth criminalize homosexuality, with penalties up to life imprisonment in at least seven member states, plus the death penalty in parts of northern Nigeria and rural Pakistan, and the scheduled introduction of death by stoning in Brunei.

Which made this gaytastic kiss between Dr. Who actor John Barrowman and an unknown lucky gent so amazing at the opening ceremony in Scotland.

And as scripted as the smooch may have been, it’s being taken as a big poke in the eye to participating nations whose gay rights track records are certainly not winning them any medals.

Here’s how it aired:

Reaction was expectedly mixed, but Barrowman responded with total class:

As did these supporters:

 

Don't forget to share:

Help make sure LGBTQ+ stories are being told...

We can't rely on mainstream media to tell our stories. That's why we don't lock Queerty articles behind a paywall. Will you support our mission with a contribution today?

Cancel anytime · Proudly LGBTQ+ owned and operated