Author JK Rowling has come out to defend Johnny Depp after some have called for him to be axed from the next installment of the Fantastic Bast franchise.
Depp briefly appeared at the end of the last film and is set to have a bigger role in the coming movie which is set t be released in November next year. However, before filming began on the latest film, Depp was involved in a messy divorce from Amber Heard, with accusations of violence made against the actor. This has led some to question Depp’s involvement with the film.
Rowling, who has written both the screenplays for the movies, said that despite considering recasting they have decided to continue with Depp as both parties in the relationship have expressed a desire to get on with their lives.
‘As David Yates, long-time Potter director, has already said, we naturally considered the possibility of recasting. I understand why some have been confused and angry about why that didn’t happen.’
She continued ‘However, the agreements that have been put in place to protect the privacy of two people [Depp and Heard], both of whom have expressed a desire to get on with their lives, must be respected. Based on our understanding of the circumstances, the filmmakers and I are not only comfortable sticking with our original casting but genuinely happy to have Johnny playing a major character in the movies.’
Depp has not commented on the story but has starred in several movies since the story of his messy divorce from Amber Heard was made public. Depp appeared in the new Murder on the Orient Express film alongside acting legends Judi Dench and Kenneth Branner.