Penelope Cruz has defended her former love Tom Cruise from the media backlash against his devotion to Scientology. The Spanish actress adores Cruise as a pal and can't understand why people refuse to accept his beliefs.

She says, "I can only say good things about Tom. I know him pretty well, so I know what I'm talking about. Tom and I are good friends and in many ways he's shown me to have a kind heart.

"Scientology is positive. When you read a book of Buddhism, you could apply it to your life in any way you need to, so with a book of Scientology it's the same thing. I think we should respect all religions."

(This news article provided by World Entertainment News Network)