nejen ;)

Disney's High School Musical star Vanessa Hudgens is speaking out after a nude photo of the actress hit the Internet on Thursday.

In a statement released Friday by her rep, Hudgens, 18, says: "I want to apologize to my fans, whose support and trust means the world to me. I am embarrassed over this situation and regret having ever taken these photos. I am thankful for the support of my family and friends."

On Thursday, a nude picture of Hudgens surfaced on multiple Web sites. The same day her rep issued a statement saying the photo "was taken privately. It is a personal matter and it is unfortunate that this has become public." Then on Friday, more candid photos of Hudgens (clothed, this time) began surfacing.

On Friday, a Disney Channel spokesperson released this statement: "Vanessa has apologized for what was obviously a lapse in judgment. We hope she's learned a valuable lesson."

The studio was in talks to bring Hudgens (who is currently dating her HSM costar, Zac Efron) back for more HSM sequels.