Penelope Cruz Denies Olivier Martinez Romance 2/12/07

Penelope Cruz has slammed rumors she is dating French actor Olivier Martinez.

The pair were spotted last week (ends09FEB07) in an embrace at LA's Chateau Marmont Hotel just 12 hours after his split from pop star Kylie Minogue - but the Volver star insists she was only offering Martinez a shoulder to cry on, as the couple have been firm friends for many years.

She says, "Olivier and I have been friends for seven years. We are very close.

"You can understand it's a difficult time for him right now, so I have been there for him to offer support. And it was lovely seeing him the other day - it has been such a long time.

"He's a great guy, but no, nothing happened."

Minogue and Martinez issued a statement earlier this month (02FEB07) announcing their decision to part, claiming it was "amicable and mutual".

The Taking Lives actor sparked rumors of a split with the Spinning Around star in December (06) after he was spotted with Israeli model Sarai Givati and Lost star Michelle Rodriguez.