The sexual preference of Tinky Winky, the largest of the four Teletubbies characters on the series that airs in America on PBS stations, has been the subject of debate since the series premiered in England in 1997.

The character, whose voice is obviously that of a boy, has been found carrying a red purse in many episodes and has become a favorite character among gay groups worldwide.

Now, further evidence that the creators of the series intend for Tinky Winky to be a gay role model have surfaced. He is purple -- the gay-pride color; and his antenna is shaped like a triangle -- the gay-pride symbol.

Parents Alert from February 1999 issue of Jerry Falwell's National Liberty Journal

Dr Falwell responded to media criticism with a Press Statement which included the following:

Dr. Falwell has never seen the teletubbies' TV program. Dr. Falwell has never commented in any way on the teletubbies. He did not "out" Tinky Winky. Dr. Falwell is publisher of the National Liberty Journal (NLJ).

"This harmless-looking character carries a red patent leather purse and has a triangle, the recognized symbol of the homosexual-rights community, on his head."

12 February 1999 edition of Falwell Confidential