Introduction to the Controversy
In a recent interview with The Times UK, Johnny Depp shared his thoughts on his highly publicized legal dispute with his ex-wife, actress Amber Heard. Depp referred to himself as a "crash test dummy for #metoo," suggesting that he was a test subject for the movement’s impact on Hollywood.
Depp’s Perspective on the Situation
Depp stated, "My comeback? To be honest? I didn’t go anywhere." He believes that he didn’t actually leave the industry, but rather, he was boycotted by Hollywood. The Pirates of the Caribbean star praised the International Film Festival of San Sebastián for recognizing him with the prestigious Donostia award in 2021, despite the controversy surrounding him.
The Legal Battle with Amber Heard
In 2022, Depp and Heard were involved in a highly publicized court battle, which resulted in a jury finding that Depp was defamed. Heard had written an op-ed in 2018 for The Washington Post, in which she described herself as a survivor of domestic violence, without mentioning Depp’s name. The case sparked a media frenzy, with many people taking sides on social media. Depp’s fans were particularly vocal, with some even showing up outside the courtroom and sending death threats to Heard.
Depp’s Thoughts on the #MeToo Movement
Depp claimed that his experiences were before the #metoo movement, and that’s why people didn’t support him. However, the #metoo movement was actually founded in 2006 by activist Tarana Burke, and it gained momentum in the entertainment industry around 2017. Depp said, "I will tell you what hurts. There are people and I think of three who made me dirty. These people were on my children’s parties. They throw them in the air. And look, I understand people who couldn’t get up [for me] because the most frightening for her was to make the right choice."
Depp’s Current Projects and Activities
Since 2022, Depp has been slowly returning to the public eye. He recently performed at the MTV Video Music Awards and started a European tour with his band, Hollywood Vampire. He has also been seen in a fashion show by Savage X Fenty and will be starring in an upcoming film, Day Drinker, alongside Penelope Cruz. Additionally, he will be working on Terry Gilliam’s Carnival: at the end of the days, alongside Adam Driver, Jeff Bridges, and Jason Momoa.
Reflections on the Experience
Depp reflected on his experience, saying, "No, I don’t regret anything about anything. What can we really do with dinner from last week?" He also stated that he didn’t care about the consequences of his actions, saying, "Look, none of it would be easy, but I didn’t care. I thought: ‘I will fight until the bitter end.’" Depp’s comments suggest that he is unapologetic about his actions and is moving forward with his life and career.
