Depp Conditions Pirates Return on Finalizing Franchise Legacy
Johnny Depp has expressed conditional willingness to reprise his role as Jack Sparrow in a potential sixth Pirates of the Caribbean film. In an interview with Entertainment Tonight, the actor stated that he would only return if the project serves to 'send them off on a better note' for the franchise. Depp emphasized his deep trust in producer Jerry Bruckheimer, stating he would work with him immediately regardless of the project details. While Bruckheimer has confirmed ongoing conversations and a developing script, no official greenlight has been announced. This statement comes as Depp promotes his upcoming career-revival film, Ebenezer, and navigates a post-2022 legal trial resurgence.
Key points
- Depp stated his sole motivation for returning would be to ensure the franchise ends on a strong note.
- The actor emphasized his personal trust and friendship with producer Jerry Bruckheimer as a deciding factor.
- Bruckheimer confirmed in 2025 that he has spoken with Depp about a new movie and remains optimistic about the project.
- Screenwriter Jeff Nathanson is currently refining the script, with Bruckheimer praising the third act but noting the first two need work.
- Depp is currently promoting his upcoming film Ebenezer, which marks a significant step in his Hollywood comeback.
Background
Depp headlined five Pirates of the Caribbean films between 2003 and 2017, with the series collectively grossing $4.5 billion. His future with the franchise became uncertain following his 2022 libel trial against Amber Heard. While a Margot Robbie-led reboot was previously in development, Robbie indicated in 2022 that Disney was not interested in that specific female-led project. Bruckheimer has since focused on a traditional sixth installment, with Nathanson writing the script. Depp's last major studio film was 2018's Fantastic Beasts, and he is now returning to the screen with Ebenezer, a darker reimagining of A Christmas Carol directed by Ti West, which opens in theaters on November 13, 2026.
How outlets are covering it
The Hollywood Reporter, Yahoo, and Deadline all report on Depp's comments to Entertainment Tonight, highlighting his conditional openness to returning. The outlets emphasize Depp's trust in Bruckheimer and his desire to provide a strong conclusion to the franchise. Yahoo provides additional context on the financial success of the previous films and the timeline of development, while Deadline notes the ongoing script work by Nathanson. All sources agree that while Bruckheimer is optimistic, the project is not yet greenlit and depends on the quality of the screenplay. The outlets also note Depp's current career resurgence, particularly his promotion of Ebenezer, as a factor in his willingness to engage with the franchise again.
Why it matters
Depp's potential return would signal a major shift in his career trajectory following his 2022 legal issues and a period of limited studio work. His involvement could also indicate Disney's commitment to reviving the Pirates franchise, which has been in development for several years. The outcome of this project may influence the future of other franchise reboots and the broader landscape of Hollywood's approach to legacy characters and actors navigating career comebacks.
What to watch
The next steps involve the completion of the screenplay by Jeff Nathanson and a decision by Disney and Bruckheimer on whether to greenlight the project. Depp's participation will likely depend on the final quality of the script and the overall vision for the franchise. The release of Ebenezer in November 2026 will also be a key indicator of Depp's current marketability and audience reception, which could influence the Pirates decision.
- Johnny Depp on His One Condition to Return as Jack Sparrow for ‘Pirates of the Caribbean 6’ The Hollywood Reporter
- Johnny Depp Says He’d Return as Jack Sparrow in ‘Pirates of the Caribbean 6’ for Only One Reason: ‘I Want to Send Them Off on a Better Note’ Yahoo
- Johnny Depp no longer rules out a 'Pirates of the Caribbean' return after years away from franchise Fox News
- Johnny Depp Reacts to Orlando Bloom Wanting to Reunite for Another Pirates of the Caribbean Movie (Exclusive) People.com
- Johnny Depp Open To Reprising 'Pirates Of The Caribbean' Role To "Send Them Off On A Better Note" Deadline
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