Amber Heard is returning to acting in her first major role since the high-profile legal battle with ex-husband Johnny Depp, marking a new chapter in the ongoing Johnny Depp trial aftermath impacts Heard. On June 23, the 39-year-old shared a rare backstage moment before debuting in Jeremy O. Harris’ much-anticipated play, Spirit of the People, revealing her dramatic comeback to the stage.
Heard Reemerges in Theatre After Legal Turmoil
The new play Spirit of the People, written by Jeremy O. Harris and featuring actor Brandon Flynn, is Heard’s first significant acting project following the 2022 defamation trial against Johnny Depp. Heard’s Instagram account featured a backstage selfie with Harris, teasing audiences with a glimpse into this new era. By disabling comments on her social media post, Heard kept all focus on her career shift and upcoming performance, signaling her intent to move forward from the intense media coverage of her personal life.
Spirit of the People Marks a Major Comeback
Heard will star in the world premiere of Spirit of the People at the Williamstown Theatre Festival this July. The production, led by Jeremy O. Harris—famed for Slave Play—casts Heard alongside Brandon Flynn, best known from 13 Reasons Why. This marks her return to the spotlight after the six-week public trial ended in late 2022 with an eventual settlement. Heard’s involvement in this project demonstrates her commitment to reviving her acting career while contending with public scrutiny stemming from the headline-dominating lawsuit.
Juggling Motherhood and Career After the Trial
Following the tumultuous trial, Heard made the decision to step back and prioritize family. Her daughter Oonagh Paige, now four years old, and her recently born twins, Ocean and Agnes, have been her main focus during this quieter period. In 2023, she made a notable appearance at Italy’s Taormina Film Festival with her film In the Fire and, prior to that, reprised her role in Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom.
“I get to be a mom full time,”
—Amber Heard, interview with Savannah Guthrie, Today
“Where I’m not having to juggle calls with lawyers.”
—Amber Heard, interview with Savannah Guthrie, Today
In reflecting on her legal ordeal, Heard explained her motivations and the impact it might have on her children.
“I think no matter what, it will mean something. I did the right thing. I did everything I could to stand up for myself and the truth.”
—Amber Heard, interview with Savannah Guthrie, Today
Establishing a New Home and Future in Spain
Seeking privacy and a slower pace, Heard and her children have relocated to Madrid since the trial. Enjoying life in Spain away from the relentless media attention, Heard expressed her fondness for her new home. Asked whether she plans to stay in Spain for the foreseeable future, she replied,
“I hope so. Yes, I love living here.”
—Amber Heard, TikTok statement, May 2023
Motherhood and Celebrating Growth
Heard’s personal journey as a mother took a joyful turn last month when she announced the birth of twins. Sharing her happiness with admirers, she said,
“Mother’s Day 2025 will be one I’ll never forget,”
—Amber Heard, Instagram May 11
She continued,
“I am elated beyond words to celebrate the completion of the family I’ve strived to build for years. Today I officially share the news that I welcomed twins into the Heard gang. My daughter Agnes and my son Ocean are keeping my hands (and my heart) full.”
—Amber Heard, Instagram May 11
Looking back on the beginning of her journey, Heard described how becoming a mother changed her life and perspective.
“When I had my first baby girl, Oonagh, four years ago, my world changed forever. I thought I couldn’t possibly burst with more joy. Well, now I am bursting times three!!! Becoming a mother by myself and on my own terms despite my own fertility challenges has been the most humbling experience of my life.”
—Amber Heard, Instagram
She also opened up about why she chose to share her family news with the world:
“A part of me wants to uphold that my private life is none of anyone’s business,”
—Amber Heard, Instagram 2021.
“I also get that the nature of my job compels me to take control of this.”
—Amber Heard, Instagram 2021
As Spirit of the People prepares for its premiere, Heard stands at a crossroads, blending a renewed passion for acting with new responsibilities as a mother of three, all while navigating the complex legacy of the Johnny Depp trial aftermath impacts Heard and her ongoing role in public discourse.
