Jennifer Lopez's new boyfriend has taken to Twitter.com to defend the age gap between them, insisting "opinions of others are irrelevant".

The singer/actress, 42, started dating dancer Casper Smart soon after she split from husband Marc Anthony last summer.
 
The new couple has been snapped kissing and cuddling in various locations and now 24-year-old Smart has taken to the internet to brush off comments about their 18-year age difference.
 
He writes, "Age, status, n (and) opinions of others are irrelevant. Our hearts are endless and our souls infinite. Our ages are mere reminders of the hours logged on this earth and the precious time remaining.

"We should all honor our time here by indulging our passion and dreams. So, close your ears and open your hearts; Love and be happy!"

Lopez clearly agrees with Smart's sentiments - she re-tweeted his messages on her own Twitter page.