The stars of Desperate Housewives have pledged their support to the show's embattled creator/writer as he fights assault allegations from former castmate Nicollette Sheridan.

Sheridan stunned fans of the hit show earlier this month when she filed suit against Marc Cherry, claiming he slapped her during a row about a scene and then fired the actress when she complained about his behaviour on set.

Sheridan also alleged that Cherry had verbally attacked former castmate Teri Hatcher after she complained to TV executives on her behalf.

But it seems the existing castmates are sticking by Cherry in the dispute - they've released a joint statement supporting the writer, in which they state, "It would be irresponsible of us to let the public believe that being a part of this show from its inception has been anything but a blessing."

Hatcher, Eva Longoria Parker, Felicity Huffman and Marcia Cross also insist they have "no first-hand knowledge of what Nicollette may or may not have experienced."

And Hatcher is particularly upset that her name was used in Sheridan's grievance and has separately attacked the actress' lawyers for singling her out, claiming Cherry told the fired star, "I hope Teri Hatcher gets hit by a car and dies."

A statement from Hatcher reads, "I'm honoured to stand with Eva, Felicity and Marcia, as a group, and clarify that our set environment is nothing less than an amazingly positive experience. I have never felt discriminated against. In fact, I have felt heard and respected by Marc and other executives in regards to both my professional and personal needs."