Sick Jared Leto refuses handshakes in London

Jared Leto banned fans and reporters from shaking his hand while promoting his Oscar-nominated film Dallas Buyers Club in London this week (begs27Jan14), because the sick star didn't want to "spread his germs".

The actor had his publicist issue a warning to the press before he walked the red carpet at the Curzon cinema on Wednesday night (29Jan14), and he made sure not to get too close to the crowds of devotees waiting outside the venue as he signed autographs.

His representative stated: "He's not being rude, but if you put your hand out he won't shake it. It's not that he's worried about catching anything - he's just been ill and doesn't want to spread his germs."

Leto's illness appeared to dampen his spirits for the premiere - when asked what the most challenging part of preparing for his role as an HIV-infected transgender character was, he simply replied, "This press line."

The actor was joined on the red carpet by his movie co-star Matthew McConaughey.

The drama has been nominated for six Oscars, including Best Picture and Best Actor and Supporting Actor nods for McConaughey and Leto, respectively.