Bill C-3: How Hollywood'S Icons Are Crossing The Border To Canada

Hollywood Icons Embrace Canadian Citizenship

Some of Hollywood's most iconic stars, including Madonna and Hillary Clinton, are set to join the Canadian family thanks to a groundbreaking new law. On November 20, the Canadian federal government rolled out Bill C-3, officially named An Act to amend the Citizenship Act (2025), which dispenses with the first-generation limit (FGL) to citizenship by descent. This means more individuals can now claim their rightful place under the Canadian flag.

Madonna and Her French-Canadian Roots

Queen of Pop, Madonna Louise Ciccone, who calls Bay City, Michigan her birthplace, will now find herself connected to Canada’s vibrant scene. While she currently holds only US citizenship, Madonna's maternal ancestors hailed from the Perche region, moving to Quebec in the 17th century. With Bill C-3 in play, her rich French-Canadian lineage grants her Canadian citizenship.

“Canada has always felt like home,” Madonna commented, highlighting her deep-rooted connection to her Canadian ancestry.

Viggo Mortensen and Other Stars

Viggo Mortensen, best known for his standout roles in "The Lord of the Rings" and "Green Book," is another star on track to receive Canadian citizenship. Born in New York, Viggo holds US and Danish citizenship, but his connection to Canada is through his grandfather, who hails from Nova Scotia.

Joining the mix is Lily Collins, who, despite her British-American background, traces her Canadian roots back to her maternal grandfather in Winnipeg. Not to be left out, former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton will see her deep French-Canadian ancestry finally recognized. Her matrilineal links even tie her to Canadian icons like Justin Trudeau and Celine Dion.

Jack White's Canadian Connection

Detroit-born music maestro Jack White will also make the list, thanks to his Scottish-Canadian lineage. His grandfather, born in Nova Scotia, further connects him to the Great White North.

Bill C-3, once in effect, will also allow citizens by descent to pass on this citizenship, which was limited by the FGL since 2009. Though the law is passed, the exact date it will come into force remains a mystery, with interim measures in place to fill the gap.

Until then, our favorite celebs can apply for proof of citizenship, ensuring they’re ready to embrace their new Canadian identity when the time comes.