Johnny Depp, who has been named People Magazine's Sexiest Man Alive twice, surprised attendees at San Diego Comic-Con this week by appearing in costume as Ebenezer Scrooge. The actor, 63, arrived at the event on Thursday dressed as the iconic Charles Dickens character to promote his upcoming film, "Ebenezer: A Christmas Carol," set for theatrical release on November 13.
A mock storefront resembling a Victorian-era shop, complete with fake snow, was constructed in the Gaslamp district. As carolers sang, Depp emerged from the storefront in Victorian attire, including a blue overcoat and a black top hat. He remained in character, adopting a grouchy demeanor and responding to greetings with lines like, "What's so good about it?"
Depp also appeared on Collider's Directors on Directing panel during Comic-Con, still in costume. He entered the stage carrying a candle and with a coat draped over his shoulders, using a light brown cane as he moved.
"Ebenezer: A Christmas Carol" is directed by Ti West, known for films such as "X," "Pearl," and "MaXXXine." The cast also includes Rupert Grint, Andrea Riseborough, Sam Claflin, Daisy Ridley, Tramell Tillman, and Ian McKellen. McKellen recalled working with Depp on the film in April, telling Variety that Depp was "in spankingly good form. Effervescent, funny, irreverent, serious - all at the same time."
Rupert Grint, speaking to The Hollywood Reporter in February, described the project as faithful to the original story but with Ti West's signature style, adding that Depp was "doing some really interesting things."
Depp's appearance marks a continued return to the public eye and the film industry following his 2022 defamation trial with ex-wife Amber Heard. In 2023, he starred in the historical drama "Jeanne de Barry," which premiered at the Cannes Film Festival. He also directed and produced the 2024 biographical film "Modi, Three Days On The Wing Of Madness." His upcoming roles include the action thriller "Day Drinker," slated for release in 2027.