Depp Conditions Pirates Return on Finalizing Franchise Legacy

Key points

• Depp stated in an Entertainment Tonight interview that he is open to working with Jerry Bruckheimer if the project meets his standards for concluding the franchise.
• The actor emphasized his deep friendship with Bruckheimer, saying he would work with him 'tomorrow for anything' if the creative vision is right.
• Depp’s comments were made during the press tour for his upcoming film Ebenezer, which is scheduled for release on November 13, 2026.
• Orlando Bloom recently expressed interest in returning to the franchise, noting the power of nostalgia, but admitted he has not received updates on a new film.
• Producer Jerry Bruckheimer previously confirmed that screenwriter Jeff Nathanson is working on a screenplay for a sixth installment, with a strong third act already drafted.

Background

Depp’s potential return to the Pirates franchise has been a topic of speculation since his 2022 libel trial against Amber Heard, which he won. Prior to that, he faced a 2020 libel trial against The Sun, which he lost, leading to his removal from Fantastic Beasts. The franchise has been in development for several years, with Disney exploring both a reboot and a sixth installment. Depp’s last studio film was 2018’s Fantastic Beasts: The Crimes of Grindelwald, and he has since been working on a comeback, including the upcoming Ebenezer and a 2028 thriller, Day Drinker.

How outlets are covering it

Deadline and Variety both report Depp’s conditional willingness to return, focusing on his trust in Bruckheimer and the need for a strong screenplay. Yahoo highlights Depp’s humorous response to Orlando Bloom’s interest in a reunion, where Depp joked about a contest to see who could grow facial hair faster. All sources agree that no official project has been greenlit, but they differ in emphasis: Deadline and Variety focus on the creative and professional aspects, while Yahoo focuses on the personal dynamic between Depp and Bloom.

Why it matters

Depp’s potential return to the Pirates franchise would mark a significant moment in his career resurgence following his legal troubles. The franchise has collectively grossed $4.5 billion, with Depp’s involvement in all five films. A sixth installment could signal a full return to the A-list for Depp and provide a definitive conclusion to a beloved series. The outcome will depend on the quality of the screenplay and the alignment of creative visions between Depp, Bruckheimer, and the studio.

What to watch

The next steps will depend on the progress of the screenplay by Jeff Nathanson and whether Depp and Bruckheimer can agree on a project that meets Depp’s standards. If the script is finalized, negotiations for Depp’s return could begin. Meanwhile, Depp will continue to promote his upcoming film Ebenezer, which is scheduled for release on November 13, 2026. The outcome of these negotiations will likely be announced in the coming months.