Miley Cyrus on David Letterman

“I’m still a kid and I still do kid things,” Cyrus said. “Anyone who says, ‘She’s growing too quickly,’ doesn't know me personally. I am an entertainer and my show is mature for what I do in concert but, as my normal self, I’m pretty crazy.”

Miley has been criticised for ditching the wholesome Disney image associated with her Hannah Montana role in favour of a more raunchy look as she promotes her new album Can’t Be Tamed.

She appeared on the show sporting a rocker look and wearing leather trousers.

Letterman said: “Sitting here talking to you, you don't seem like a 17-year-old.

“You seem like you have matured through the process of performing as a kid – have you lost a childhood?”

Cyrus replied: “I don't think so, I’ve gone through awesome things and gotten to perform and do what I love, so for me, that's what I’ve always wanted to do.”

Quipped Letterman: “Are you looking for the warmth the spotlight can’t provide?”

She replied: “No, where do you find such things?!”