Anna Nicole Smith's Mother Sues Media

A website claimed she was the mother of her stepbrother's child

Anna Nicole Smith's mother Virgie Arthur is suing TMZ and Howard K. Stern for 'tarnishing her image'.

The late model's mother claims the gossip website and Anna Nicole's lawyer and partner spread a false story that she was the mother of her stepbrother's child.

The story on TMZ was titled 'Virgie Has Son With Step-Brother', according to court papers.

"Their goal was simple and straightforward - to 'destroy' anyone that was opposed to Howard K. Stern or his interest,' the lawsuit says.

Virgin Arthur hasn't denied the story , but wants financial compensation as an apology.

Anna Nicole Smith was one of the most popular reality TV stars and Playmate models - she first became famous after marrying billionaire J Howard Marshall, 63 years her senior.

Following his death, she began a lengthy legal battle over a share of his estate.

Anna Nicole Smith died at age 39 of an accidental prescription drug overdose in 2007 - Howard K Stern and Larry Birkhead fought for the custody of her newborn daughter Dannielynn.

Birkhead - who turned out to be the biological father, was awarded custody of Dannielynn, who as Smith's heir could inherit a multimillion-dollar fortune.