Johnny Depp is reportedly in discussions to return to the "Pirates of the Caribbean" franchise, with producer Jerry Bruckheimer confirming that a screenplay is in development. "We're talking with Johnny, we're working on a screenplay, and hopefully we can get this done," Bruckheimer told Deadline at D23.
While the extent of Depp's involvement remains unclear, some insiders suggest the sixth installment of the blockbuster series may focus on a new protagonist, potentially introduced by actress Margot Robbie, with Depp appearing as a supporting character. Depp has been synonymous with the role of Captain Jack Sparrow, having starred as the eccentric pirate in all five previous films of the franchise. His first appearance was in 2003's "Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl."
The franchise, which spans five films released between 2003 and 2017, has grossed over $4.5 billion worldwide. The most recent film, "Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Men Tell No Tales," saw a notable decrease in box office performance compared to its predecessors.
In 2018, scriptwriter Stuart Beattie had suggested that Depp might be retiring from the role, stating that Depp had "made that character his own" and that it had become his most famous role. "I think Jack Sparrow will be his legacy," Beattie had said at the time.
Depp's potential return to the "Pirates" franchise would mark one of his first major film roles since his 2022 defamation case victory against ex-wife Amber Heard. He is also set to appear as Ebenezer Scrooge in the upcoming film "Ebenezer: A Christmas Carol," scheduled for release on November 13.