British illusionist Derren Brown revealed in an interview this weekend that he has been in a 'perfect' relationship with a man for over a year.

Brown, who first confirmed he was gay in an article for the Independent on Sunday in 2007, said in an interview with The Sun this weekend that he has been with his partner for a year – "and it's perfect."

"Coming out when you are in the public eye is one of those things that isn't an issue to yourself, your friends or your family. But you have to make a statement about it.

"You have to be open and up front – or you end up turning it into a dark secret in your mind."

But Derren added: "I'm desperately sorry to the girls who may have had a crush on me. If any of them want to try to turn me . . . no, no, I shouldn't say that."

Derren's Channel 4 series Mind Control series has made him one of TV's top mind-benders.

He has sparked controversy in the past – with stunts such as playing Russian roulette and holding a seance on screen.

His partner is not famous and intends to stay out of the public eye.

Derren added: "He was not particularly much of a fan before we met, nor was he interested in magic or anything like that."

Last update: 04-22-2008 23:55