Elton John: Jesus was a super-intelligent gay man

The eccentric singer added that Jesus was "compassionate", forgiving and "understood human problems".

Sir Elton said in the Parade interview: "On the cross, he forgave the people who crucified him. Jesus wanted us to be loving and forgiving.

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

A spokesman for the Church of England commented: "Sir Elton's reflection that Jesus calls us all to love and forgive is one shared by all Christians."

"But insights into aspects of the historic person of Jesus are perhaps best left to the academics," the spokesman added.