Denzel WashingtonDenzel WashingtonDenzel Washington has revealed that he's a big boy and can cope with the recent rumours about his private life.

The Oscar-winning actor is frankly puzzled by all the chit-chat.

But now he's hit back at reports that his marriage is in trouble because of his alleged womanising ways.

He tells the Hollywood issue of Essence magazine:

"I've heard (the rumours). Having babies, I've left home and all this... I'm a big boy. I can take it.

"But what bothers me about all of that stuff is the effect on the family."

He concludes that he and Pauletta - his wife of 22 years - are standing firm together to fight the rumours.