Daniel Radcliffe has discussed his post-Harry Potter career, hitting back at claims that he's an "unconventional" lead for romantic comedies, in particular. The actor said he was frustrated at being typecast as an alternative romantic hero, arguing that the male population "had no problem sexualising Emma Watson immediately".

Daniel RadcliffeWho's calling Daniel Radcliffe an unconventional romantic lead? Not us

In an interview with the Associated Press, Radcliffe said: "Around the time of rom com What If coming out, a lot of people were saying: 'You're really an unconventional romantic lead.' And so eventually I got bored of hearing that and kind of picked someone up on it, so I was like 'What about me is unconventional, exactly? Like, tell me."

"And she said, 'well, I think it's probably the fact that you know, we associated you with playing Harry, the young boy wizard.'

"My immediate response to that was: 'Well, the male population had no problem sexualising Emma Watson immediately.'"

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Watson made headlines after a determined and articulate address at the UN last month. Launching her 'HeForShe' campaign, the actress said: "Men - I would like to take this opportunity to extend your formal invitation. Gender equality is your issue too." Watson is aiming to enlist the support of men to help achieve equality between sexes.

More: Emma Watson's first UN speech targets gender equality

Radcliffe is about to begin work on Brooklyn Bridge, in which he'll play the civil engineer Washington Roebling - son of architect John A. Roebling - who was entrusted with completing his father's famous bridge in New York. Douglas McGrath writes and directs, while Brie Larson and Ben Kingsley make up the supporting cast.

He will also play Igor in Paul McGuigan's 2015 horror-drama Frankenstein.