(Cover) - EN Showbiz - Ellen DeGeneres has applauded US President Barack Obama for declaring his support for gay marriage.

Yesterday, the politician confirmed he backs the legalisation of same sex couples being able to tie the knot.

Ellen, who married Portia de Rossi in 2008 following the overturn of the gay marriage ban in California, delivered a speech on her show today to thank the president for his announcement.

"President Obama just came out in support of same sex marriage and I say, 'Wow wow'," she said.

"There have been moments in history when someone has the courage to stand up for what they believe in and that one action changes everything.

"It takes a brave man to take a stand like this - especially in an election year - so I say, Mr. president thank you very, very, very much!"

She was one of many celebrities who have used Twitter to praise the leader for his words. Lady Gaga, an ambassador for gay rights, lauded Obama on the social networking site.

"Obama, congratulations on being the first sitting President to support marriage equality. Feels like the future, and not the past. #NoFear. (sic)" she wrote.

How I Met Your Mother star Neil Patrick Harris agreed. Neil confirmed he is gay in November 2006 and has been supporting equal opportunities ever since. "Bravo, Mr. President, and thank you," he tweeted. (C) Cover Media