"Downton Abbey" actor claims he is now being typecast

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October 5, 2017 | Arts / Entertainment

"Downton Abbey" actor claims he is now being typecast

Rob James-Collier said that his role as a gay character in Downton Abbey has damaged his career.

He played butler Thomas Barrow on the show. At the time, James-Collier said playing the part was “a privilege” and was important for helping many fans deal with their struggles with their sexuality.

Well, apparently he isn't a fan of the role anymore. During an interview with Radio Times, he said the role resulted in him being typecast and has affected his job prospects.

“I think audiences in the US can identify quite easily with the quintessential English gent and English lady, whereas a neurotic, dark, gay character like Thomas is a hard thing to put into the American market. ... It can lead to typecasting,” he argued.

He added: “Because Thomas Barrow is gay and is, essentially, the bad guy for much of the show, a lot of people within the industry can only see you as that."

Since Downton Abbey has ended, he was been offered roles in the theater, but he turned them down because they were for gay characters. He "really wanted to show something different." (Because, as you know, all gay characters are the same.)

Maybe the problem isn't really the role of Thomas Barrow ... the problem is Rob James-Collier, himself.