Radcliffe 'heartbroken over gay suicides'

Daniel Radcliffe has spoken out against a recent string of suicides by gay teenagers.

The Harry Potter actor confessed that he was "heartbroken" by the deaths of Tyler Clementi, Seth Walsh and others who were bullied by their peers because of their sexuality.

"Learning about the suicide deaths of Tyler Clementi, Seth Walsh, Asher Walker, Billy Lucas and Justin Aaberg has been heartbreaking for me. These young people were bullied and tormented by people that should have been their friends," he told MTV News in a statement.

"We have a responsibility to be better to each other, and accept each others' differences regardless of sexual orientation, gender identity, race, ability, or religion and stand up for someone when they're bullied."

He continued: "My deepest sympathies go out to the families and friends of these excellent young people. And to all the young people who are being bullied right now, you are not alone."

Radcliffe also urged young people to be aware of changes in their friends' behaviour in hope of preventing the tragedy.

"When a friend is feeling depressed or says they're thinking of killing themselves, we must take it seriously and get them help," he said.

DS