Michael Buble stirred up a whole lot of controversy after sharing a picture of a seemingly oblivious woman’s bum in a pair of tight shorts.

The picture, taken by his wife, was uploaded to Instagram with the caption: “Here was something about this photo l took that seemed worthy of Instagram #myhumps #babygotback #hungryshorts #onlyinmiami #picoftheday #beautifulbum”.

The singer faced a barrage of criticism for the questionable snap, with people accusing him of bodyshaming – and now he’s spoken out to defend himself.

“Anybody who knows me would never misinterpret the message of the photo my wife took in Miami that seems to have caused unexpected rage by some people,” the Canadian, who is married to underwear model Luisana Lopilato, wrote in a statement which he posted on Instagram.

“I do not court controversy. But I realise that a photo that was meant to be complimentary and lighthearted has turned into a questionable issue.

“For the record, It hurts me deeply that anyone would think that I would disrespect women or be insulting to any human being.

“I was not brought up that way and it is not in my character. I regret that there are people out there who found the photo offensive. That was not and is not my intention.

“Women are to be celebrated, loved, respected, honoured and revered. I’ve spent my life believing that and will continue to do so.”