Miley Cyrus Defends "Goofy Face" Photo

Miley Cyrus is a totally innocent, goofy, God-loving gal.

So says Miley Cyrus herself.

In response to criticism that a recent photo of the actress and her friends is offensive to Asians, Cyrus has blogged the following:

I'm sorry if people looked at those pics and took.. out of context!

In NO way was I making fun of any ethnicity! I was simply making a goofy face. When did that become newsworthy? It seems someone is trying to make something out of nothing to me. If that would of been anyone else, it would of been overlooked! I definitely feel like the press is trying to make me out as the new 'BAD GIRL'!

I feel like now that [Britney Spears] is back on top of her game again, they need someone to pick on! Lucky me! haha Anyway, I just wanted to let you guys know what is on my heart. You guys know me and have been by my side every step of the way! You guys know my heart and know the most important things to me are my friends, family, fans, and GOD!

** Our Take: You're right, Miley, if that had been someone else, it would have been overlooked. Michael Phelps can say the same thing about his recent bong use; or Vanessa Hudgens about her leaked naked photos in 2006.

But the bottom line is that celebrities are held to a higher standard. You have earned worldwide fame and fortune by peddling your supposedly clean Disney image. Can you truly make the argument that you had NO clue the current photo in question would be interpreted as an insult to Asians? Perception is as important as reality sometimes.

We still heart you, Miley. But grow up, take responsibiliy - or take yourself out of the spotlight.