Dolly Parton has slammed Christians who use the Bible to justify discrimination against gay people.

The Jolene singer – who herself is Christian – told Billboard that she loves her huge gay following and that anti-gay Christians are the real “sinners”.

In the interview, she said, “They know that I completely love and accept them, as I do all people. I’ve struggled enough in my life to be appreciated and understood. I’ve had to go against all kinds of people through the years just to be myself. I think everybody should be allowed to be who they are, and to love who they love.”

She added, “I don’t think we should be judgmental. Lord, I’ve got enough problems of my own to pass judgment on somebody else. But as far as the Christians, if people want to pass judgment, they’re already sinning.

“The sin of judging is just as bad as any other sin they might say somebody else is committing. I try to love everybody.”

Parton was also asked about her theme park, Dollywood, which has proved a big hit with the LGBT community and Christian families. But how does that work?

“It’s a place for entertainment, a place for all families, period. It’s for all that.”

Dolly Parton, 68, is celebrating 50 years in the music industry this year.