Wentworth Miller won't return to Prison Break because he doesn't want to play straight characters

Wentworth Miller won't return to Prison Break because he doesn't want to play "straight characters" anymore.

The 48-year-old actor - who came out as gay in 2013 - has officially stepped down from portraying Michael Scofield so he won't be involved in the rumoured sixth season of the Fox series. 

This is because he feels heterosexual stories have "been told and told" and he's keen to do more with his career.

He wrote on Instagram: "I'm out. Of PB. Officially.

"Not because of static on social media (although that has centred the issue). I just don't want to play straight characters. Their stories have been told (and told).

"So. No more Michael. If you were a fan of the show, hoping for additional seasons... I understand this is disappointing. I'm sorry.

"If you're hot and bothered because you fell in love with a fictional straight man played by a real gay one...That's your work. - W.M."

Wentworth made the revelation when he explained he was planning to disable comments on his Instagram account because of the negative remarks he has received, which he does't want "queer kids" to be "exposed" to when they're already battling with their sexuality.

He wrote: "I see the positive comments and DMs (a lot of them anyway). Affectionate. Supportive. Appreciated (by me).

"Obviously there are comments and DMs I appreciate less. Who are these people? On my page? What backwards-a**, Stone Age-values country did they crawl out of? The US?

"I won't be disappearing (too many cool things to repost). The ability to comment likely will.

"I'm not concerned for myself. I can't be 'bullied' in this space. I have too much power. 'Delete. Block. Deactivate.' Etc.

"But I take seriously the possibility of queer kids visiting here, recently out of the closet or exploring the idea... I don't want them exposed to bulls***."