London, Apr 30 : Australian actor Hugh Jackman has come out in support of pop queen Madonna after her bid to adopt an African girl failed.

The 40-year-old star, who himself has two adopted kids Oscar, eight, and three-year-old Ava, said he is sickened by cynics who favoured an African judge’s decision to reject Madge’s bid to adopt four-year-old baby girl Mercy James earlier this month.

“I challenge anyone who thinks you adopt a kid for a publicity stunt,” the Sun quoted Jackman as saying.

“Anyone parent knows that would have to be the most intensive publicity stunt in the world. I am sure she is coming from a good place,” he added.

The X-men star admits that he can understand the Material Girl’s desire to adopt as he and wife Deborra-Lee’s wish to adopt a child from Asia or Africa was crushed under stringent Aussie rules.

“The adoption laws in Australia are too restrictive. Of course, checks need to be made. But they had a very negative approach,” Jackman said.

“It was like they were trying to discourage you.

“There are 130million orphans in the world — who is looking after them? If you are a citizen of the world, on some level they are all our responsibility.

“And if you have got parents who want to adopt and there are children who need a home, it seems like a no-brainer.

“There are not that many children in Australia who need adopting, so we looked internationally and that is what is difficult,” he added.

Jackman and wife Deborra-Lee kids adopted their kids from America. (ANI)