JAMIE LEE CURTIS has jumped to the defence of ARNOLD SCHWARZENEGGER - insisting he's not a bully, a womanizer or a control freak.

A controversial article in the new issue (MAR01) of America's PREMIERE magazine claimed exactly that, sending shockwaves throughout Hollywood, with Schwarzenegger's lawyers attempting to ban publication before it hit the newsstands. But Curtis, a good friend of Arnie's, insists there is no truth to the claims and is taking action by writing a stern letter to the editor of Premiere denying the accusations.

The article accuses Schwarzenegger, 53, of fondling female co- stars and female interviewers, as well as humiliating members of his staff for the amusement of his co-stars. Curtis says, "I told them I've known Arnold for a long time, and that I hold him in the highest esteem. Arnold is a perfect gentleman and a devoted family man."

She adds that she is certain Schwarzenegger and his wife, news- reader MARIA SHRIVER, are devastated by the article - but is confident they will rise above it. She adds, "This is a deeply religious man who is devoted to his wife and children. Because of them and with their help, he will be able to weather this attack." (SVD/WNWC/CPT)

Source: WENN