Simon Cowell denies being gay

X Factor judge Simon Cowell has denied that he is gay.

Speaking to the Daily Star, the 49-year-old said that sexuality is not an issue when working in the music and TV industry.

He said: "I am not gay. But in this business, if you were it wouldn't matter. It is not exactly unusual to be gay in the music business or the TV business. It is 2009, after all. So if you are, you are and if you're not, you're not."

Cowell, who split from long-term partner Terri Seymour last year, insisted that he will never get married.

"I don't think marriage would suit me or the person I would marry," he explained. "I am happy single. I am friends with all my exes and I enjoy their company, but I keep crazy hours."