Sir Elton John has claimed that Jesus was a "super-intelligent gay man" in a controversial new interview. The Rocket Man singer told US magazine Parade: "I think Jesus was a compassionate, super-intelligent gay man who understood human problems."

"On the Cross, he forgave the people who crucified him. Jesus wanted us to be loving and forgiving."

He added: "I don't know what makes people so cruel. Try being a gay woman in the Middle East - you're as good as dead."