DeGeneres: 'I’m proud of Adam Lambert'

Ellen DeGeneres has revealed that she is proud of Adam Lambert for deciding to come out publicly.

The American Idol runner-up declared his sexuality in Rolling Stone earlier this week, a decision which DeGeneres has praised.

She told TV Guide: "I'm proud of him, and I'm happy for anyone who has the guts to actually tell the world who they are and not fear they are going to lose their career or alienate anybody."

DeGeneres, who outed herself as a lesbian on the cover of TIME magazine in 1997, said that Lambert’s proclamation can send "a positive message".

She added: "We've seen recently in the press how many kids have killed themselves because of being bullied at school and teased.

"Whenever there is somebody who is successful and talented and happy and openly gay, I think that sends a really positive message for all these kids out there that are struggling - and adults."

DeGeneres was named "the most powerful gay celebrity" in the April edition of US publication Out.