Beyonce is facing scruntiny after an image of her smoking with an old-fashioned cigarette holder hit billboards and newspapers around the country.

The anti-smoking group Quit has even written to the Federal Department of Health about it’s illegal nature and negative impact especially because she is considered a role model by millions of people.

Quit executive director Todd Harper said the advertisement could be seen to be promoting and giving publicity to a smoking product, which is illegal.

“She is so talented and she doesn’t really need to do this,” he said.

“I’m disappointed that Beyonce has used smoking in this way….She’s clearly a role model for young people, and the fact she can sell out shows means she doesn’t need this ad in magazines to portray sophistication….She doesn’t need this to enhance her message.”

Bee’s tour promoter Michael Coppel said that the image was taken from the back of Beyonce’s album cover and it was approved by the singer’s management and record company Sony BMG.

According to website Smoking Sides, which identifies celebrity smokers, Beyonce has been seen smoking in nightclubs.