In an exclusive statement to ET's Cheryl Woodcock, original Daisy Duke Catherine Bach speaks out about the recent media buzz surrounding Jessica Simpson's new look.

"I think it's a shame that Jessica has been viciously attacked for superficial reasons," Catherine says. "It sends a bad message to our young girls that in order to fit in, you have to be skinny and your outfits better make you look skinny, too. What I hope my daughters are learning from me is to respect themselves, honor their bodies, and show compassion and kindness towards others."

Recent photos of the singer made headlines for showing off a new, curvier look. Jessica played Daisy Duke in the 2005 film 'The Dukes of Hazzard' -- a role Catherine played in the popular late '70s/early '80s television series by the same name.