Justin Timberlake has leaped to the defense of ex-girlfriend Britney Spears, hailing her bald new look "a smart choice".

Spears stunned fans last week when she sheared off her locks in favor of a startling buzz cut and had two tattoos etched on her lower hip and wrist.

The world's media immediately branded the dramatic makeover a cry for help, but Timberlake has a more positive spin on events.

He says, "It was a smart choice. She is starting over, cleaning herself up.

"It was something you wouldn't expect most stars to do, so she is taking a chance."

Spears checked herself into rehab yesterday.

(This news article provided by World Entertainment News Network)