Johnny Depp, who turned 60 this June, is well past the height of his acting career and is still recovering from a string of legal troubles. The actor consistently made headlines for his ups and downs, from his iconic roles in Edward Scissorhands and Pirates of the Caribbean to highly publicized divorce and legal disputes.

Hollywood has always been known for frequently collaborating with talented actors, and Johnny Depp is unquestionably one of them. Despite recent controversy and personal struggles, rumors about his potential return to the big screen have been circulating. Hollywood appears to be open to giving him another chance but it seems it won’t be that easy for the actor.

Johnny Depp

Depp received positive reviews after his latest appearance at the Cannes Film Festival, but it is unclear if American audiences are ready to warmly welcome him back. However, several insiders have their own distinct views on his comeback at this time.

Is Hollywood Prepared For Johnny Depp’s Comeback?

Prior to his bitter divorce and legal battle with his ex-wife, actress Amber Heard, which resulted in accusations of domestic violence from both parties, Johnny Depp was one of the most well-known movie stars. The legal charges significantly impacted his reputation and career, even though his chances of making a comeback have improved since he won the defamation case against his former wife.

According to an article by IndieWire, several industry insiders claim that Hollywood is now ready for Depp’s comeback after his Jeanne du Barry film received a standing ovation at Cannes. But there can be some significant conditions.

Johnny Depp

One talent agent wrote:

“He would have a better chance of working in the U.S. if he looked a little better. He looks bloated and unhealthy in the few photos I’ve seen of him recently — he doesn’t look like a movie star to me. If he gets in great shape and if he’s professional (on time, knows his lines, etc.) on the films he works on now, I think Hollywood will cast him in leads again.”

Nancy Nigrosh, a script consultant, advised the Private Resort actor that if he discovers

“A small but crucial role in something classy (classy = not based on a comic book or low-rent genre) that is perfectly tailored to his grown-up bad-boy persona, he could be seen as someone who can truly carry his own baggage.”

Johnny Depp

Meanwhile, one director’s agent said:

“JD has U.S. as well as ROW [the rest of the world] box office value among young moviegoers and adults alike when he plays an odd character. It’s when he does something dramatic and real that it usually seems not his strong suit.”

What Can We Expect Next From Johnny Depp?

After the highly publicized 2022 defamation trial involving ex-spouses Johnny Depp and Amber Heard, many people questioned what the future of both actors’ careers held.

Depp’s comeback role was as King Louis XV in Maïwenn’s historical drama Jeanne du Barry, which had its premiere at the 2023 Cannes Film Festival. The movie is scheduled to start streaming on Netflix in France in about a year, which could affect the date of Vertical Entertainment’s theatrical release in the United States.

Johnny Depp in Jeanne du Barry

Also, according to Deadline, it was revealed in May 2023 that Depp would be in charge of directing the biopic Modi, which explores the life of Italian artist Amedeo Modigliani while he was residing in Paris in 1916. According to producer Barry Navidi:

“This is a snapshot of Modigliani’s life that gives us insight into his struggle as an artist suffering from lack of recognition, and a project Al and I have pursued for many years. Our incredible cast, coupled with the vision, wit, and sensitivity I know Johnny will bring behind the camera, will make this a dream come true.”

Riccardo Scamarcio, Pierre Niney, and one of the most recognizable names in Hollywood, Al Pacino, have all already been cast in the film. The upcoming film’s release date and other details are still unknown.

Johnny Depp in a still from Jeanne Du Barry

Meanwhile, Jeanne du Barry has not yet been released in the US. But when the actor’s long-awaited return to the big screen does occur, it will undoubtedly be a momentous occasion for Johnny Depp’s fans.