Ever since the New Jersey native wrote and directed the bittersweet homecoming film 'Garden State,' Zach Braff has become a kind of ambassador on behalf of the oft-maligned state.

"Now I feel like I have to defend New Jersey all the time, all over the place -- no thanks to Snooki," said Braff on 'Late Night' (weeknights, 12:37AM ET on NBC). "She's really bad for Jersey, Snooki! ... America, you can go to the Jersey Shore and you will not get punched in the face."

Though Nicole Polizzi and the rest of the 'Jersey Shore' cast make his dear state look bad, the actor will still watch the new season. "I can't wait to see their abs," Braff joked.