Joss Stone defends Tom Cruise

Joss Stone has defended Tom Cruise against allegations that he is "weird".

The soul singer insisted that Cruise does not deserve the criticism he receives due to his belief in the controversial Church of Scientology.

"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," Joss explained.

"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."

Cruise was ridiculed in January when a video which saw him discussing his religious beliefs was leaked on to the internet. He was quickly defended by his fellow Scientologists John Travolta and Kirstie Alley.