Rocketman star Taron Egerton has admitted he is "crestfallen" that gay scenes have been cut from the Elton John biopic by Russian distributors.

The move has already been condemned by the singing superstar, who described the decision to cut footage as a "sad reflection of the divided world we still live in".

Egerton, who has won praise for his portrayal of Elton in the film, wrote on Instagram: "I am crestfallen that the decision was made to censor our movie for the Russian market.

"I'm even more disappointed to hear about it second hand today on the day of our domestic release.

"I in no way condone this decision and feel disappointed I wasn't made aware and given the chance to fight this move.

"Love is love. No compromises."

He also added a rainbow emoji, which is a symbol of LGBT pride.

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Critics in Russia claimed that scenes depicting sexual acts and kissing between men had been removed.

The pop star has history with Russia, warning about threats to gay rights in the nation, and receiving a call from Vladimir Putin.

Elton John and the biopic filmmakers stated: "We reject in the strongest possible terms the decision to pander to local laws and censor Rocketman for the Russian market, a move we were unaware of until today.

"Paramount Pictures have been brave and bold partners in allowing us to create a film which is a true representation of Elton's extraordinary life, warts and all.

"That the local distributor has edited out certain scenes, denying the audience the opportunity to see the film as it was intended is a sad reflection of the divided world we still live in and how it can still be so cruelly unaccepting of the love between two people.

"We believe in building bridges and open dialogue, and will continue to push for the breaking down of barriers until all people are heard equally across the world."