It is believed the series of pictures showing Vanessa naked, in a bath and pulling down her pants were taken by Vanessa herself using a mirror.

Vanessa Hudgens had been hailed by critics as Hollywoods next big star after she shot to fame with the success of her movie "High School Musical" and its sequel which she starred in alongside her real life school sweetheart Zac Effron.

Vanessa has since issued a statement saying she is deeply sorry over the pictures. She said she is very embarrassed over the photos and regrets ever taking them. She is grateful for the support she is receiving from family and friends.

A spokesman for the Disney channel has told USMagazine.com that Vanessa has apologized for her momentary lapse in judgement and that they hope she has learned a valuable lesson.

The leak of the photographs comes at a potentiallly bad time for Miss Hudgens as she is currently in negotiation with Disney for a third and upcoming sequel to the sucessful high school Musical.