John Travolta has refuted claims that his latest movie Hairspray is a "gay movie", creating an outcry from gay-rights campaigners.

The Grease actor stars in the role of Edna Turnblad in the remake of the 80's cult classic. Travolta's role was played by the late drag queen Divine in the 1988 original.

Travolta stated: "There is nothing gay in this movie. I'm not playing a gay man."

The actor went on to defend his beliefs in Scientology, denying accusations that the religion was homophobic and wished to "cure" homosexuality.

He commented: "Scientology is not homophobic in any way. In fact it's one of the more tolerant faiths. Anyone's accepted."