James Franco wishes he was gay.

The 'Oz: The Great and Powerful' actor is completely unfazed by rumours about his sexuality and even joked he wishes he liked men.

Referring to his recent comedy roast and the comments thrown at him, James told The Daily Beast: "Great! Bring on the gay jokes! Because these aren't insults at all. I don't even care if people think I'm gay, so it was like, 'Awesome!' I mean, I wish I was ... I wish I was gay."

The handsome star - who is currently single - explained he finds it difficult to reconcile the public image of himself with his private life, but has accepted he is always going to be the subject of speculation.

James clarified: "I mean, we don't have to go into it. But as far as that larger phenomenon that you're talking about that happens to other actors, part of it is that movies are a place where people can project things and identify with characters, and it's the same thing with actors outside of their roles - and it's been that way since Hollywood was around.

"That's why there's a lot of conjecture. That's been one of my things, too. My relationship with my public image over the past four or five years has just become weirder and weirder, because I look at it and it's me, and it's not me, so if other people want to use that for their own purposes or needs, I'm fine with it."

Bang Showbiz