'Derek' actor and creator Ricky Gervais has described his sympathetic comic creation as "a superhero", and doesn't think he should be criticsed for portraying someone with learning difficulties.
The comedian has explained he "looks up to" the titular character from his popular sitcom, insisting he doesn't listen to those who criticise him for portraying a man with learning difficulties.
He told The Sun newspaper's TV Magazine: "You can't let the criticism affect you. All my feedback comes from Twitter.I love it when my show affects someone - whether it makes them laugh or cry.
"Anyway, I've never considered Derek to have Down's syndrome or to be autistic. And even if he is, what's wrong with such a positive role model?
"I look up to Derek, he's better than everyone because he's the nicest person in the world."
The 'Muppets Most Wanted' star also confirmed 'Derek' will return for a third series because there are still members of the public who are only just understanding the character.
He said: "Yes [there will be a third series], there's still people just 'getting' it.
"It look me three goes at presenting the Golden Globes before people got that I was telling jokes rather than trying to ruin careers.
"'Derek' is an acquired taste, but every show I've done has been like landing at Normandy with bullets hitting."
Tagged in Ricky Gervais