general | March 30, 2026

Where Johnny Depp's Relationship With Disney Stands, Post-Defamation Trial

There were rumors floating around that Johnny Depp would be returning to his role as the infamous pirate captain, but a rep for the actor quickly shot those rumors down as "false," according to People. Jerry Bruckheimer, the producer of the "Pirates" franchise, has also verified Depp's claim, saying the actor did indeed step away from the multi-billion dollar company. He stated that "the future is yet to be decided" on whether or not Depp will reprise his role as Jack Sparrow. 

There are others who think the lure of a hefty paycheck might be enough to draw the actor back on the "Pirates" set. A source told People that the idea of Depp turning down a hypothetical $300 million check from Disney, which Depp declared he would do while on the stand, won't be feasible for the "Fantastic Beasts" star. "I don't believe that based on his money troubles, especially given 'Pirates' is a billion-dollar global franchise," the source claimed.

Another source close to the actor also claimed that Depp could potentially return to the franchise if asked. "Anything is possible," the insider said. "If it's the right project, he'll do it."