Depardieu granted Russian citizenship, Producers Guild announces nominees

Gerard Depardieu has been granted Russian citizenship. The French movie star said weeks ago that he hoped to leave his homeland to avoid a tax hike on the rich. A Kremlin spokesperson said Depardieu had applied for citizenship and it was granted by Russian President Vladimir Putin. No word from Depardieu's camp about the announcement, or whether the actor will indeed accept the citizenship.

"Skyfall" has become the first James Bond film to be nominated for the top prize at the Producers Guild of America Awards. The nomination is a boost to "Skyfall's" Oscar chances and comes days after the James Bond thriller passed the 1 billion dollar mark at the global box office. Nine other films were nominated for the honor, including "Lincoln" and "Life of Pi."

Helen Mirren has received the 2,488th star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. The Oscar-winning actress was on hand for the honor. Mirren is currently starring in the film "Hitchcock," and has received a best actress Golden Globe nomination for her role.

Finally, South Korean singer-actor Rain has caused a controversy in his homeland for going out with South Korea's sweetheart, Kim Tae-hee, while on compulsory military service - but without his army hat. A spokesman for the Ministry of Defense said that Rain had admitted the uniform violation. His punishment will be decided next week.