Spider-Man gay rumours denied by Marvel

Marvel Comics has denied rumours that its new Ultimate Spider-Man is gay.

The question of half-black, half-Hispanic teenager Miles Morales's sexuality was reportedly first raised by the Daily Mail, which claimed that the hero "could be gay in the future".

The rumours were based on comments made by Ultimate Spider-Man artist Sara Pichelli to USA Today that "maybe sooner or later a black or gay - or both - hero will be considered something absolutely normal".

When the story of Marvel's new Spider-Man began to be reported in the media, some outlets began reporting the possibility that Morales may also be gay.

Right-wing commentator Glenn Beck said: "Do I care if he's half-Hispanic, all Hispanic? No. Half-black, half - I really don't care. Half-gay, all gay, I don't really care... I don't care. It's a stupid comic book."

Beck added that the new Spider-Man's identity was the result of comments made by Michelle Obama about "changing our traditions".

Morales has replaced Peter Parker as the Spider-Man of Marvel's Ultimate line following the events of 'The Death of Spider-Man'.