Mendes defends raunchy lingerie ad

Eva Mendes has blasted religious critics of her recent Calvin Klein lingerie advertisement.

The Hitch star, who can be seen sprawled half-naked across an entire New York City block in the poster, said that those who want it pulled down are "wrong".

Mendes is quoted by News.com.au as saying: "It's a religious group that has a problem with the image."

She continued: "That's what I love about this country. We can voice our opinions and beliefs like that. But they're wrong. I don't think I'm traumatising any children."

Mendes added: "I think it's a really tasteful and beautiful ad."