Sally Field and Rosie O'Donnell have become the latest stars to defend Miley Cyrus over the Vanity Fair photo controversy, calling the provocative pictures of the pop star "beautiful."

The "embarrassed" pop sensation has apologised to her fans for the scandal surrounding a series of new shots for June's glossy, in which she appears naked.

In one of the pictures, taken by celebrated photographer Annie Leibovitz, the 15-year-old poses topless, wrapped in a satin sheet. The shot has caused outrage among family values groups across America.

In a statement released on Monday, Cyrus said, "I took part in a photo shoot that was supposed to be artistic and now, seeing the photographs and reading the story, I feel so embarrassed."

But Field and O'Donnell insist the teenager has nothing to feel embarrassed about.

Oscar winner Field says, "I love Miley Cyrus. My granddaughters are completely and utterly over the moon (with her). I watch Hannah Montana. I think, 'Let it go for God's sake'. It's a beautiful picture."

And, in a new post on her blog, actress-turned-TV host O'Donnell adds, "I thought it was kind of a beautiful portrait... It's Annie Leibovitz, people! Leave Miley alone!"

-Miley Cyrus Pictures

(This news article provided by World Entertainment News Network)