One of the most controversial and polarizing figures in recent memory is Johnny Depp. Following abuse allegations, and subsequent legal cases, from Aquaman star Amber Heard, Depp’s career has been in a state of flux. Recently, the actor’s roles in films like Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Men Tell No Tales have been marred with backlash. Today, Depp revealed via an Instagram post that he has been asked to resign from the Fantastic Beasts franchise as production for the third film begins.
“I wish to let you know that I have been asked to resign by Warner Bros. from my role as Grindelwald in Fantastic Beasts and I have respected and agreed to that request,” Depp wrote in a statement. Moreover, a Warner Bros. spokesperson said “Johnny Depp will depart the Fantastic Beasts franchise. We thank Johnny for his work on the films to date” when asked to comment on the developing situation.
Depp first appeared as the villainous dark wizard in the Harry Potter prequels during the final moments of 2016’s Fantastic Beasts and Where To Find Them. The sequel, The Crimes of Grindelwald, further explores Depp’s character and teased much more to come in future installments. Warner Bros will reportedly recast the role for the third feature scheduled to debut in summer 2022.
READ: ‘Superman & Lois’ Set Photos Reveal First Look At Superman’s New Suit
The Fantastic Beasts film series serves as a spinoff and prequel to the Harry Potter franchise. The first two installments follow British wizard and magizoologist Newt Scamander as he travels worldwide in an attempt to rescue and care for magical creatures. The films feature an A-list cast including Eddie Redmayne, Katherine Waterston, Ezra Miller, Colin Farrell, Ron Perlman, Jude Law, and Zoë Kravitz. The series touts a combined $375 million at the worldwide box office.
Depp’s departure from the franchise continues a trend of controversy for those involved. Ezra Miller has been at the center of controversy following footage of an altercation with a female fan surfaced online. Additionally, Harry Potter creator J.K. Rowling has made unsavory and ignorant comments about members of the transgender community as well.
What do you think? Who would you like to see portray Grindelwald in the next Fantastic Beasts movie? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!
—–
Did you enjoy this article? If so, consider visiting our YouTube channel, where we discuss the latest and greatest in pop culture news.
