Lee 'creates world's first gay superhero'

Stan Lee has reportedly created the world's first gay superhero.

The former Marvel Comics chairman has developed a television show based on the novel Hero by Perry Moore.

The story follows Thom Creed, a high school basketball player who is forced to hide his superpowers and his sexuality.

"It was only a matter of time before we had our first gay superhero. And if there is one man who can make him a success it is Stan Lee," an insider told The Sun. "There’s a real buzz among comic book fans."

The character will be launched in an hour-long programme for US cable network Showtime, although no production dates have been announced yet.

If the show proves popular with US audiences, it will likely be aired in the UK at a later date.

Lee is responsible for co-creating a multitude of comic book superheros, including Spider-Man, Iron Man, the Hulk and Thor.