News Briefs

- Variety.com reports Johnny Depp’s production company, Infinitum Nihil, has secured the rights to the true story of Alexander Litvinenko, the Russian spy poisoned in November with polonium-210 and who accused Russian President Vladimir Putin’s regime for the crime shortly before his death. (I’ve been following this in the news, and it’s a fascinating story. I’m glad Johnny’s company got the rights to tell the tale.)

- ZeeNews.com reports Johnny was thrilled to meet Irish author JP Donleavy at the 50th anniversary party of the novel “Ginger Man” in New York recently. “It was great to meet up with this wonderful, wonderful man and spend a couple of days with him in New York. It was, you know, magnificent, meeting one of your heroes like that. He’s a beautiful guy. And what he’s been through, especially with The Ginger Man, it’s miraculous he’s still upright.” According to the report, Johnny is expected to star in the film adaptation of the novel which is scheduled to start filming in early 2007.

- Ain’t It Cool News offers some great promotional artwork for POTC3. Thanks to Kimberly for the link! Click image to enlarge.

- Kimberly also found some great photos on MatthewBourne.org of Johnny with the cast of the stage production of Edward Scissorhands. These were reportedly taken in L.A. on Dec. 30. Thanks again, Kimberly!