She has now apologised for her words and insists they do not represent her true feelings towards the homosexual community.

In a statement on the Gay & Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation (GLAAD) website, she said: "I am so sorry and so upset that I caused pain to my gay friends, fans and their families with the comments heard this morning. I was having this private conversation with a friend of mine who is gay and our conversation was in no way towards the entire gay community.

"It is the last thing that I would ever want to do and I cannot put into words how much I wish I could take back every word."

She also proclaimed gay people to be among "the most inspiring" individuals she knows because many have to overcome bullying.

Paris added: "Gay people are the strongest and most inspiring people I know. It is so wrong when people bully or put down others for being gay.

"No one should have to go through that. Again, I am so sorry from the bottom of my heart and I feel absolutely horrible."