The 'Iron Man' actress insists she has a lot of respect for the 'Hung Up' singer because she has overcome many obstacles in her private life.

Gwyneth said: "She's been through everything. And she's a real survivor. Every problem that I've had, she's had 10 problems worse that dwarf my own issues."

In recent years, Madonna has endured a bitter divorce from Guy Ritchie, seen her brother Christopher Ciccone write a damning tell-all book about their relationship and face a barrage of criticism over her adoption of Malawian boy David Banda.

Gwyneth, 36, insists the public perception of Madonna as a feisty, demanding diva is far from the truth. In reality, the blonde actress says her 50-year-old friend is warm and thoughtful.

Gwyneth said: "She's a very interested, caring woman. She's pretty great. She's Madonna and she comes with all this stuff but she's pretty incredible."

Gwyneth and Madonna have been friends for 10 years, with the singer turning to Gwyneth for support after split from Guy last year.