Tom Daley’s boyfriend denies he is to be quizzed as character witness in sex abuse X-Men case

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Dustin Lance Black has denied reports he is to be called as a character witness in the sex abuse trial of X-Men director Bryan Singer.

The Mirror published claims on Tuesday that the screenwriter would be named as a character witness.

Last week, Michael Egan filed a legal claim against Singer, alleging the director forced him into sex during parties when Mr Egan was 17-years-old.

The former teenage actor is seeking more than $300,000 (£178,321) in damages.

Singer strenuously denies the allegations.

The names of three US television executives were added to Mr Egan’s legal case earlier this week.

A lawyer for Mr Egan had earlier confirmed the intention to call on Dustin Lance Black, telling the paper: “I intend to take ­depositions [statements] of all individuals who may have relevant information, including Singer’s friends.”

However, yesterday a spokesman for Black said there “was no truth to reports” that he was to be called as a character witness.

The Mail reports Black is close to Singer, considering him a mentor figure, and has been seen attending a pool party hosted by the director, who has strenuously denied the allegations.

There is no suggestion Black had any knowledge or was present at the time of the alleged abuse.