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A well-known tribute to Ianto Jones, a beloved character from the Doctor Who spin-off Torchwood, is set to be dismantled after standing for more than 17 years in Cardiff’s Mermaid Quay. The shrine, created by fans to honor the queer character near the original filming location, has become a significant landmark for devotees of the series. However, concerns over health and safety have prompted the decision to remove it.
Carol-Anne Hillman, who has taken care of the shrine since 2017 and describes herself as its “shrine-keeper,” expressed deep sadness over the news. She explained how the shrine became a meaningful part of her life, highlighting the personal investment she made: “I’ve got a back bedroom that’s got about 11 or 12 bags of decorations now that I can’t use. I’ve spent hundreds buying all these decorations. There’s loads of people now that won’t get even the first look at the shrine.” Meanwhile, fans from far afield, like Claudia from Germany, shared their sorrow. Claudia reflected on Torchwood’s unique charm and admitted the shrine was in need of repair: “[But] let’s face it, the area is dodgy. The metal is rusted, the wood is decaying, it’s in desperate need of some refurbishing and renovation.”
Torchwood first aired in 2006 and followed the alien-hunting adventures of Captain Jack and his team, starring actors John Barrowman and Eve Myles. The show gained acclaim for its representation of queer characters, particularly with the relationship between Jack and Ianto being prominently featured on mainstream television. Thousands of fans worldwide have visited the shrine, but some, like Erin Curran from Northern Ireland, are making last-minute plans to see it before removal. Erin described the shrine as “a landmark, a tourist spot, an example of the power of fandom and passion in numbers,” and lamented the idea of its destruction, noting that many cannot understand why it cannot be reinstated after maintenance work.
Gareth David Lloyd, who portrayed Ianto, expressed surprise at the enduring impact his character has had on fans. Speaking to BBC Wales, he said, “When we finished filming and I started to realise the cultural impact Ianto and his relationship with Jack was having, it was a big surprise, a very moving surprise. I certainly wasn’t expecting a shrine to be erected, and maintained for 20 years after. On one hand, it’s a bit bonkers, but on the other it’s a monument to the impact Ianto, and his relationship with Jack, had on the queer community, and one that I’m really proud of.” A spokesperson for Mermaid Quay confirmed the shrine’s removal is temporary, citing essential maintenance to ensure safety, with plans to work alongside the local community on a new plaque honoring Ianto once the work is complete. Carol-Anne Hillman has also agreed to assist with the design of this new tribute
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