Martin's looks, sexuality in question

MIAMI, Feb. 23 (UPI) -- Puerto Rican pop singer Ricky Martin has become a frequent target of media punditry regarding his fading good looks and rumored homosexuality.

When the singer appeared in Miami this week for the Premio Lo Nuestro awards show, his looks and sexuality were the main topics of conversation, the Daily Mail reported.

While the "She Bangs" star was once celebrated for his good looks, the British newspaper detailed how his remarkable hair has been reduced to a simple buzz cut and his rugged jaw line has disappeared beneath an unkempt beard.

The singer, who won for best pop album of the year at Friday's Latin music awards ceremony, has also been rumored to be gay and a recent interview with his friend, skin care guru Ole Henriksen, did little to dismiss such innuendo.

"He is a bit more open about it these days than he used to be," Henriksen said. "It's difficult for artists -- women as well as men -- who need to sell lots of records to be open about their sexuality."