From correspondents in London, England, 10:01 PM IST

Hitting back at the rumours of his sexual orientation, Australian actor Hugh Jackman insists he isn't gay. He, however, also doesn't want fans to think there's anything shameful about same sex couples.

The 'Australia' star has been dismissing the reports for years that he is gay and he simply wishes they'd go away, reports contactmusic.com.

'I'd be happy to go and deny it, because I'm not (gay). But, by denying it, I'm saying there isn't anything shameful (about being gay),' he said.

The married father of two adopted kids only hears the rumours about his sexuality when he's in America.

'The questions about sexuality I find more in America than anywhere else, because it's a big hang-up and defines what people think about themselves and others. It's not a big issue in Australia,' he said.

(Staff Writer, © IANS)