Slater offers sympathy to Spears

Christian Slater has said that he feels sorry for troubled stars like Britney Spears because of the pressure they are put under by the intrusive media.

The actor, who is a reformed drug addict, argued that it is hard for celebrities to overcome their addictions while under the scrutiny of the public.

He told Closer: "It's a confusing world, living in that sort of goldfish bowl with everyone watching your latest move."

"There's a lot of pressure, and my heart goes out to those girls."

Slater added that his relationship with fashion designer Tamara Mellon had made him happier than any other time in his life.

He said: "She's a phenomenal woman. She's fantastic, really fabulous. I've never been happier. Hopefully things will keep moving on in the direction they're going."