Torchwood star Gareth David-Lloyd reacts to loss of Ianto’s shrine: “It kept me going”

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Following the announcement that the Ianto Shrine in Cardiff Bay will be removed, actor Gareth David-Lloyd has shared his thoughts on what the memorial has meant to him over the years.

Fans created the shrine after the death of Ianto Jones, a popular character played by David-Lloyd in the Doctor Who spin-off Torchwood. It has been a fixture at the location for 17 years.

Mermaid Quay’s management has announced that the shrine will be temporarily removed for maintenance. They’ve indicated that a memorial plaque honoring the character may be installed later.

David-Lloyd shared with TopMob that the shrine has been a constant source of strength for him, especially during difficult periods in his career. He explained that when he doubted continuing to act, or felt overlooked by employers, the shrine reminded him that his work had touched people and given him the motivation to persevere.

He shared that the shrine has always been very meaningful to him, and expressed his gratitude to Carol-Ann Hillman, the caretaker, and everyone else who helps maintain and visit the site. He also thanked those who share photos and stories online, saying their support has been a real source of encouragement.

The actor, known for playing Ianto from 2006 to 2009 and continuing to voice the character in audio dramas, also encouraged fans to honor Ianto by donating to charities he would have supported, specifically Cancer Research and Dogs Trust.

You know, it’d be great to put up a little plaque, just to acknowledge the people who are really heartbroken about it being removed. It’s a small thing, but it feels like the right thing to do for those who are truly upset.

I understand there’s a petition going around, but I’m not convinced it’s the best way to honor Ianto. I think he’d much prefer it if people supported the causes he cared about – the same ones he would have signed petitions for – rather than focusing on maintaining a memorial to himself.

He encouraged fans to consider what qualities made them connect with Ianto, what aspects of his character resonated with them, and what causes he believed Ianto would have championed.

Ianto started as a minor character on the show, but his importance grew as the series went on. He’s especially remembered for his relationship with Captain Jack Harkness, which offered much-needed LGBTQ+ representation when it was rare to see on television.

This, David-Lloyd thinks, is why the character has meant so much to so many people.

I’ve been most touched by stories from fans at conventions. They’ve told me how Ianto and his relationship with Jack have helped them personally, like coming out to their families or learning to accept themselves. It’s really meaningful to hear that.

I didn’t really consider this while I was creating the character, but many fans have told me they connect with him on a personal level, which is incredibly heartwarming. I think people see themselves in him and find his experiences relatable.

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He’s noticed a significant improvement in LGBTQ+ representation in TV and film since his time on Torchwood. Initially, he wasn’t fully aware of how little LGBTQ+ representation there was, but looking back, he realizes how groundbreaking the show was. He’s happy to see so many well-written, realistic shows now featuring diverse LGBTQ+ characters.

As for what Torchwood and Ianto have meant to David-Lloyd personally?

This was a turning point for me, both personally and professionally. Things changed incredibly fast. I was at a low point, feeling depressed and living in London. After five years of doing odd jobs there, I was starting to doubt if I’d ever find my purpose. Then, out of nowhere, I got the chance to return home and become a series regular on a science fiction show.

“It changed my whole life. So it will always be a big part of me.”

Torchwood is available to watch on BBC iPlayer.

Authors

Louise GriffinSci-Fi and Fantasy Editor

Louise Griffin edits the Sci-Fi & Fantasy section at TopMob, writing about popular franchises like Doctor Who, Star Wars, Marvel, House of the Dragon, and Good Omens. Before TopMob, she was a Senior Entertainment Reporter at Metro and holds a degree in English Literature.

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2026-03-04 20:06