Has John Barrowman been "Served"?

Here's some (potential) good news for you fans of British TV: in a recent story about London's Pride festivities, the blog over at PinkNewsUK noted that out actor John Barrowman is being lined up to play recently deceased actor John Inman, best known as the camp-as-a-row-of-tents clerk Mr. Humphries on the Britcom Are You Being Served?, in a biopic.

Inman, who was himself gay and wed his partner a mere year before his recent death, played his flamboyant character with a great deal of wit and charm, and was reportedly discouraged by public response that Humphries was a "negative gay stereotype". Barrowman, on the other hand, is from a newer generation and has found success in roles that are far less camp -- it will be interesting to see him take on Inman's life and works, if he indeed is getting the role (we've been unable to confirm the rumor, as Mr. Barrowman has somehow slipped out of the restraints in Michael's basement -- so don't get too excited!).

This kind of begs the question: who would best play recently deceased American TV star Charles Nelson Reilly? That is, if the American film industry actually cared about its late gay stars? (ouch...)

EDITOR'S UPDATE: The webmaster for John's official site says the news isn't true.