Johnny Depp has addressed fans who questioned his casting in ‘Fantastic Beasts: The Crimes of Grindelwald.’ The controversy surrounding Depp’s involvement in the franchise followed his involvement in a legal battle with his ex-wife, Amber Heard, over allegations of domestic violence.
Last year, author J.K. Rowling publicly expressed her support of the casting along with director David Yates, saying that she is “genuinely happy” to have him on board for the project.
In a recent interview, Depp addressed his role and the allegations against him. Depp admits that he “felt bad” Rowling felt that she had to defend her choice to cast him. He also maintains his innocence, explaining that he is suing The Sun for defamation. Depp explained that Rowling is aware of his innocence, saying:
“She would not stand up if she didn’t know the truth. So that’s really it.”
The allegations against Depp go beyond the ones made by Heard. In July, Depp was sued for assault after an alleged incident on the set of his film ‘City of Lies.’ The actor insisted the accusations were false and that he never touched the defendant, location manager Gregg “Rocky” Brooks. ‘City of Lies’ was pulled one month before it was to be released, but the exact reason for that is unknown.
While that film did not work out, it seems like things are full steam ahead with ‘Crimes of Grindelwald.’ Depp appeared with many fellow cast members at this year’s San Diego Comic-Con, and he even gave a speech as his character Gellert Grindelwald. Beyond that, he is heavily featured in the marketing that has been released for the film thus far.
‘Fantastic Beasts: The Crimes of Grindelwald’ opens in theaters on November 16. Here is the official synopsis for the film:
In an effort to thwart Grindelwald’s plans of raising pure-blood wizards to rule over all non-magical beings, Albus Dumbledore enlists his former student Newt Scamander, who agrees to help, unaware of the dangers that lie ahead. Lines are drawn as love and loyalty are tested, even among the truest friends and family, in an increasingly divided world.
