Johnny Depp Is in Talks to Return for ‘Pirates of the Caribbean 6’

Disney’s D23 fan event has generated a lot of buzz this weekend, showcasing new casting announcements and fresh footage for some of the studio’s most anticipated projects. However, one significant update emerged not from the main stage but through a casual carpet interview, quickly overshadowing the more formal presentations.

The ‘Pirates of the Caribbean’ franchise has been inactive since 2017’s ‘Dead Men Tell No Tales,’ which stands as the lowest-grossing installment in a series that has amassed $4.5 billion globally across five films. This lengthy hiatus, coupled with years of uncertainty regarding Johnny Depp’s potential return to the iconic role, has left fans speculating about the future direction of the franchise.

Producer Jerry Bruckheimer alleviated some of that uncertainty during a carpet interview with Deadline at D23. When asked about the status of a sixth ‘Pirates’ film, Bruckheimer confirmed that discussions with Depp are currently ongoing, stating, “We’re talking to Johnny. We’re working on a screenplay, and hopefully we can get this done.”

The reaction on social media was swift and largely positive, with fans expressing their excitement at the possibility of Depp reprising the role that has become synonymous with the franchise. This enthusiasm follows Depp’s recent public appearances, including a surprise appearance at San Diego Comic-Con as Ebenezer Scrooge to promote his upcoming film ‘Ebenezer: A Christmas Carol.’

Despite the excitement surrounding Depp’s potential involvement, Deadline reports that sources indicate the next film may not center entirely on another Jack Sparrow-led adventure. Instead, the focus is expected to shift primarily to a new protagonist portrayed by Margot Robbie, with Sparrow appearing in a smaller, supporting role.

The concept featuring Robbie has been in development intermittently since 2020, when Disney first announced plans for a female-led spinoff. Robbie mentioned to Vanity Fair in 2022 that Disney had cooled on the project at that time, but Bruckheimer has previously countered that notion, telling Entertainment Weekly that the studio remains interested in pursuing both versions of the franchise.

Depp’s absence from the franchise followed his highly publicized legal battle with ex-wife Amber Heard, which led Disney to decide against bringing him back for future ‘Pirates’ films. Throughout this period, Bruckheimer has been one of Depp’s most steadfast public supporters, previously stating in an interview with Entertainment Weekly that if Depp liked the script, he believed the actor would return.

Screenwriter Jeff Nathanson, who penned ‘Dead Men Tell No Tales,’ was reportedly attached to the new script as of last year. Bruckheimer has praised his work on the project’s third act. However, it remains unclear whether Nathanson is still involved as the screenplay continues to develop alongside these renewed discussions with Depp.

With no finalized deal, script, or release date currently in place, a sixth ‘Pirates of the Caribbean’ film remains very much in development rather than a confirmed reality. Nevertheless, Bruckheimer’s remarks represent the clearest indication yet that Disney is earnestly working to bring Depp back into the franchise after years of speculation.

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