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 Madonna: Gets sued by Russian activists for $10.5m over 'promoting gay rights'
Legendary popstar Madonna has been sued for nearly $10.5m (£6.6m) by Russian activists after she promoted gay rights at a show in St Petersburg earlier this month.
The 'pop goddess' called for "love and appreciation for the gay community" during the concert on August 9, prompting calls from politicians for her to be charged with illegal propaganda.
A group of nine have since filed a lawsuit against her, arguing that she violated a law passed in February making it illegal to promote homosexuality to minors by directing her comments at an audience allegedly containing fans as young as 12.
This complaint includes a video taken at the concert of Madonna stomping on an Orthodox cross and encouraging those in attendance to show off pink wristbands distributed during the show in support of homosexuals, according to Russian news agency RIA Novosti.
Defending the activists from accusations of outdated beliefs, their lawyer Alexander Pochuyev said: "No-one is burning anyone at the stake or carrying out an Inquisition.
"Modern civilization requires tolerance and respect for different values."
The 'Girl Gone Wild' singer performs during her concert at Olympic Hall in Moscow, Russia, with the words "Pussy Riot" on her bare back.
This lawsuit is also being levelled at the concert's organiser and the venue where it was held.
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