“Vanessa has apologized for what was obviously a lapse in judgment,” said Disney Channel spokeswoman Patti McTeague. “We hope she’s learned a valuable lesson.”

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 racy picture of Vanessa 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.

Negotiations are ongoing for the High School Musical 3 feature film — including Vanessa and co-star boyfriend Zac Efron.