Elton John has sparked a storm of internet protest after suggesting Jesus Christ was gay in a new online interview.

The Rocket Man has been targeted by outraged bloggers and Tweeters over comments he made to Parade.com as part of an article which will appear in the website's sister weekend magazine.

In the article, the Brit says, "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. I don't know what makes people so cruel."

His remarks have led to a wave of attacks from online critics.

ELTON JOHN is set to play in Sofia at the ARENA MUZIKA 2010 festival on June 13