Johnny Depp's bullmastiff, named Bourbon, is in the doghouse after mauling sheep. (AP PHOTO)
Johnny Depp is making a significant return to Hollywood with his casting as Ebenezer Scrooge in a new adaptation of A Christmas Carol. This marks Depp’s first studio film since his dismissal from the Fantastic Beasts franchise in 2020, following a tumultuous period in his career. The project is set to be directed by Ti West, known for his work in the horror genre, and is currently in negotiations with Paramount for a planned release in November 2026.
Depp’s recent cinematic endeavors have included the French film Jeanne du Barry, which served as the opening night film at the 2023 Cannes Film Festival. Directed by and starring Maiwenn, the film tells the story of King Louis XV’s historical mistress, with Depp portraying the monarch. Despite its artistic ambitions, Jeanne du Barry struggled commercially, grossing approximately $14.8 million worldwide against a reported budget of $22.4 million.
The journey of Minamata, another of Depp’s recent projects, is equally telling. This independent film, which focuses on American photographer W. Eugene Smith and his efforts to expose mercury poisoning in Japan, managed to secure a surprising third place in the 2022 Oscars “Fan Favourite” category. Though the film grossed just $755,878 at the box office, its presence in the Oscars conversation highlighted the passionate support of Depp’s fans, particularly in the wake of his highly publicized legal battles with ex-wife Amber Heard.
The public’s response to Depp’s comeback raises questions about the actor’s commercial viability. While his passionate fan base has shown vocal support, the tangible results at the box office suggest a more complex reality. Depp’s past controversies, including allegations of domestic violence and a high-profile defamation lawsuit against Heard, have created a challenging landscape for his career.
The actor’s recent activities have extended beyond traditional film roles. He has maintained a relationship with the Saudi Arabian film industry, receiving funding for projects like Modi, Three Days on the Wing of Madness, which he directed. His attendance at the Saudi Film Confex in Riyadh, where he participated in a masterclass titled “The Genius of Embodying Different Roles,” further illustrates his ongoing efforts to remain relevant in the industry.
While Depp continues to navigate his professional landscape, he has not lost his endorsement deal with Dior, remaining the face of the fragrance Sauvage. His appearance at high-profile events, including the recent Dior show during Paris Fashion Week, demonstrates a level of acceptance in certain circles. Yet, his interactions at these events have also highlighted lingering tensions, as seen when actress Charlize Theron notably avoided him.
As Depp prepares for his role in A Christmas Carol, the anticipation surrounding his comeback will be closely scrutinized. The film’s success could potentially mark a new chapter in his career, allowing him to reintegrate into Hollywood after years of controversy. Whether audiences will embrace him remains uncertain, but the stakes are undeniably high for the actor seeking redemption in a transformed industry.
