BREAKING: Johnny Depp’s return to Hollywood as Ebenezer Scrooge in Paramount Pictures’ upcoming film, Ebenezer: A Christmas Carol, has ignited fierce backlash within the industry. Insiders are calling the casting “disgraceful,” raising questions about Hollywood’s willingness to rehabilitate the star following his tumultuous past.
Depp, 62, is reportedly in final negotiations to take on the iconic role in the film directed by Ti West, set for release in November 2024. This marks Depp’s first major studio role since Fantastic Beasts: The Crimes of Grindelwald in 2018, before his highly publicized legal battles with ex-wife Amber Heard.
The decision has not gone unnoticed. Industry insiders express their discontent, arguing that this move showcases a troubling trend where studios prioritize image rehabilitation over accountability. “It’s disgraceful,” an insider told RadarOnline. “This isn’t about art or second chances – it’s a deliberate attempt to see if audiences are ready to forgive him.”
Depp’s public reputation suffered significantly after his defamation trial against Heard, where he was awarded $10.35 million in damages, while Heard received $2 million in her countersuit. The verdict divided opinions globally, with many critics labeling it as a “victory for celebrity over accountability.”
Another industry source described the casting of Depp as “incredibly tone-deaf,” highlighting the film’s themes of reckoning with one’s past. “For many abuse survivors, it feels like Hollywood is turning something painful into entertainment,” they stated.
Social media reactions have mirrored this polarization. Users on platform X voiced their frustrations, with one stating, “This is actually so fu**ing annoying cause before at least he was being cast in sh*t no one will ever watch, but now it’s evolved.” Another added, “Johnny Depp is an abuser. We won’t be watching.”
As of now, there has been no official confirmation from Paramount Pictures regarding Depp’s casting. The situation remains fluid as industry response continues to develop.
The choice to cast Depp in such a prominent role raises profound questions about accountability in Hollywood and the messages being sent to audiences. As the release date approaches, all eyes will be on both the film and the public’s reaction.
Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story.
