Johnny Depp reportedly dropped from 'Pirates of the Caribbean' franchise
Johnny Depp's name has become synonymous with Captain Jack Sparrow from the 'Pirates of the Caribbean' franchise. However, following 2017's lowest grossing film in the franchise, 'Dead Men Tell No Tales', producer Disney is reportedly looking to reboot the entire series. Part of their restructuring includes the exclusion of Depp from the role of the protagonist. Here's all about it.
Take what you can, give nothing back
Depp's lucrative run with the franchise included 5 films over a period of 14 years. During this time, the films reflected an accumulated box-office collection exceeding the amount of $4.5 billion, thus making it the twelfth biggest movie franchise of all time.
Yo ho, all together, hoist the colors high
The scriptwriter of 'Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl', Stuart Beattie, reported that Disney was not looking to pursue another film with Depp as the lead actor. He said, "I think he's had a great run. Obviously, he's made that character his own and it's become the character he's most famous for now".
Learning where to look for new content
Although not much is known about the reboot and the script is still in works, Disney has brought on Paul Wernick and Rhett Reese, the screenwriters who worked on 'Deadpool'. Beattie appreciated the new choice saying they would bring a "lot of the great comedic subversiveness". Saying he was a fan of their work, Beattie expressed his hope that they would do something special.
Exit music for a film
Depp's exit, though rebooting related, might be motivated by fans' criticism. The actor was severely criticized for domestic violence against ex-wife Amber Heard. Seeing the flak Warner Bros. was facing for working with Depp, Disney made the safer decision. Notably, Depp himself reported that Disney 'hated' his character and performance at first. However, success and fan adoration had forced them to accept Depp's portrayal.
Heave ho, thieves and beggars, never shall they die
Although Depp is exiting the 'Pirates of the Caribbean' franchise, he has a major role lined up. He plays dark wizard Gellert Grindelwald in the JK Rowling spin-off franchise, 'Fantastic Beasts'. His future appears secured there as Depp shielded Rowling for her hiring choice when she faced criticism. Rowling and director, David Yates too went to bat for Depp when he was 'falsely accused'.
