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Johnny Depp may be on the verge of a significant return to the Pirates of the Caribbean franchise, according to recent reports. Following his departure from the Disney series amid high-profile legal disputes with his ex-wife Amber Heard, there are indications that Depp’s return as Jack Sparrow for a sixth installment might soon become a reality.
The Express reports that discussions to reinstate Depp in the role are “very close” to fruition, with the actor now engaging in “advanced” negotiations. This potential comeback is likely to raise eyebrows, given the dramatic circumstances surrounding Depp’s exit and his public discontent with Disney, particularly in light of the allegations he faced regarding domestic violence and subsequent legal battles.
According to sources cited in the report, a “senior executive” within Disney has confirmed that Depp has held talks with company leadership about reprising his iconic role. The executive expressed optimism, stating: “It is very close to a done deal.” Moreover, it has been revealed that a script for the sixth film is already in development. Disney views this film not just as a continuation but as a reboot of the franchise, thereby leaving the door open for more future installments featuring Depp, despite his tumultuous history with the studio.
The executive elaborated on the preparation process, noting that Disney had developed two scripts: one tailored for Depp and another alternative that did not include him. The production team appears ready to proceed with the version that showcases Depp’s character, suggesting a strong intent to restore the franchise’s original appeal.
In terms of timeline, if negotiations proceed successfully, Pirates of the Caribbean 6 could be slated for release as early as Easter 2026. To meet this target, filming would need to commence in the immediate future.
The ‘Pirates of the Caribbean’ Franchise Has a Murky Future
Since the release of Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Men Tell No Tales (known as Salazar’s Revenge in some regions), the franchise has struggled, facing lackluster reviews and the fallout from Depp’s personal controversies. However, recent developments hint that the franchise may indeed have a chance at resurgence, reminiscent of the fabled Flying Dutchman.
Potential paths for revitalizing the Pirates saga have been summarized by Jerry Bruckheimer, a long-time producer of the series. He has publicly acknowledged the existence of two scripts: one for a reboot featuring Margot Robbie rumored as the lead, and another that sees Depp returning for a direct sequel. Bruckheimer has expressed a clear preference for Depp’s return, stating that for him, it represents the only viable way to continue the narrative of the franchise.
If the latest reports are indeed accurate, it seems that the fortune of both the beloved pirate, Jack Sparrow, and the actor who portrayed him is far from over.
Source: The Express
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