Rumors have resurfaced suggesting Johnny Depp may be making a comeback in the sixth installment of the “Pirates of the Caribbean” series. According to insider sources close to Disney, these talks are stirring curiosity among fans who eagerly await updates on Depp’s return, especially given the history and legacy of the franchise. The speculation involves Jerry Bruckheimer, the film’s longtime producer, who is reportedly considering two distinct directions for the next sequel.
The Status of Margot Robbie’s “Pirates” Project
Previously, Margot Robbie was linked to a future “Pirates” film and was even expected to potentially lead the project. Back in 2020, Robbie was said to be developing a script centered on a character named Redd, a notable redhead from the original Disneyland ride who transitions from pirate to businesswoman. However, updates on this project have been sparse, and by 2022 Robbie herself indicated that her film was likely shelved and no longer moving forward.
Disney’s 2023 Draft and the Impact of the Writers’ Strike
In 2023, Craig Mazin, known for creating HBO’s “The Last of Us,” collaborated with original “Pirates” writer Ted Elliot to craft a new script for the sixth film. Despite their efforts, the script was deemed “too weird” by many and initially believed unlikely to be purchased by Disney. Surprisingly, Disney acquired the screenplay, but the Writers Guild strike delayed any further development, leaving the project stuck in limbo.
“We pitched it and thought there’s no way they’re buying it, it’s too weird. And they did! And then we wrote a fantastic script and the strike happened and everyone’s waiting around.” Craig Mazin, Creator of The Last of Us
Jerry Bruckheimer Shares Insights on the Future of “Pirates”
During the promotion of Guy Ritchie’s upcoming film, “The Ministry of Ungentlemanly Warfare,” producer Jerry Bruckheimer hinted at the challenges and unpredictability involved in assembling successful franchises. He compared the situation to the “Top Gun” franchise, emphasizing the difficulty of lining up key actors. Bruckheimer expressed confidence in rebooting “Pirates,” noting it would be easier as it might not hinge on the availability of specific stars.
“It’s hard to tell. You don’t know, you really don’t know. You don’t know how they come together. You just don’t know. Because with Top Gun you have an actor who is iconic and brilliant. And how many movies he does before he does Top Gun, I can’t tell you. But we’re gonna reboot Pirates, so that is easier to put together because you don’t have to wait for certain actors.” Jerry Bruckheimer, Producer
Later that year, Bruckheimer told Variety that the film’s future could take two roads: one that includes Johnny Depp or another that embarks on a fresh path without him. This reflected ongoing interest in continuing the franchise while acknowledging the uncertainty around Depp’s involvement.
Sources Suggest Disney is Quietly Preparing for Production
Disinsider, a site known for breaking Disney-related news, did not confirm details but shared insights indicating Walt Disney Studios might be covertly initiating production on a “Pirates” film. Their sources hinted that filming could be underway at a Hollywood soundstage, although no firm timeline has been established. Moreover, there are claims that Johnny Depp may be involved in some capacity, but whether he will reprise his iconic role or be connected through a storyline involving his character’s son remains unknown.
Fans are advised to treat these reports cautiously until Disney or official news outlets provide confirmation. Depp’s participation appears to hinge on resolving the tension between him and Disney following the high-profile defamation trial involving Amber Heard, which dates back to 2019.
Catch Up on the Franchise
For those looking to revisit the saga before the next installment, all five “Pirates of the Caribbean” films are currently available for streaming on Disney+.
