Scarlett Johansson has defended John Travolta after the actor was branded "creepy" for attempting to plant an ill-timed kiss on her face at the Oscars.

Pictures taken at the Academy Awards in Los Angeles on Sunday (22Feb15) show the Grease star with his arm around Johansson's waist, leaning in for a smooch, as the actress appears to lean her face away.

The snap went viral on the Internet, and The Avengers star has now spoken out to defend her pal amid accusations his behavior was inappropriate.

She tells the Associated Press, "There is nothing strange, creepy or inappropriate about John Travolta. He is a true class act and everyone in the business would agree. The image that is circulating is an unfortunate still-frame from a live-action encounter that was very sweet and totally welcome. That still photo does not reflect what preceded and followed if you see the moment live... I haven't seen John in some years and it is always a pleasure to be greeted by him."

The two stars previously worked together on 2004 movie A Love Song for Bobby Long.