Pop icon George Michael is reportedly dating gay porn star CHRIS HOPE following a blistering row with his troubled longtime lover Kenny Goss.

The PATIENCE singer forged a close bond with Hope after Goss entered an Arizona rehabilitation clinic to battle alcoholism in June (04), following a booze-fuelled fight with the star.

And pals of Michael are convinced his friendship with Hope has transformed into romance.

An insider tells Britain's NEWS OF THE WORLD newspaper, "An intense friendship has now developed between the two of them and they've been spending a lot of time together."

Goss, who has been Michael's partner for eight years, checked himself out of rehab two weeks ago (09AUG04) - but he won't be shocked to hear about his partner's alleged infidelity.

Michael reveals, "Neither of us practices monogamy. And it works. There's no dining out and the usual social graces. You have people on the side for sex. Simple as that.

"After eight years I can walk out the door and tell Kenny I'm off to get my end away. He's not worried. And vice versa."

22/08/2004 14:20