Joss Stone has shown her support for new friend Tom Cruise by vowing to defend him against any negative press he receives.

Cruise has recently suffered a backlash from people who do not understand his devotion to the Church of Scientology.

Stone also lacks in a fanbase, with many tiring of her annoying, whiny and often ill-informed comments.

The soul singer says of her newest buddy: "Tom called me and said that he loved my music, would I like to come over and meet the family?

"I do not understand why people are so mean about him. He's lovely, he didn't strike me as weird in any way. I will stand up for that man against any of his critics."