Johnny Depp has sent out a statement revealing that Warner Bros. has asked him to “resign” from the role of Grindelwald in the Fantastic Beasts movie series. Warner Bros. will soon be searching for a new actor to play the villainous Gellert Grindelwald in the Fantastic Beasts franchise, as Johnny Depp has announced that he’s stepped away from the role.
A statement was released confirming that he’s been asked to “resign” from playing the character by Warner Bros. Though he doesn’t specify the reason here, this comes just days after Depp lost a libel case against British tabloid The Sun, who labeled him a “wife-beater” in a 2019 article.
Depp has been entangled in legal proceedings with ex-wife Amber Heard (Aquaman), who accused him of domestic abuse. This is a statement released November 6 by Depp:
“In light of recent events, I would like to make the following short statement. Firstly, I’d like to thank everybody who has gifted me with their support and loyalty. I have been humbled and moved by your many messages of love and concern, particularly over the last few days.”
“I wish to let you know that I have been asked to resign by Warner Bros. from my role as Grindelwald in Fantastic Beasts and I have respected and agreed to that request, the surreal judgment of the court in the U.K. will not change my fight, to tell the truth, and I confirm that I plan to appeal. My resolve remains strong and I intend to prove that the allegations against me are false. My life and career will not be defined by this moment in time.”
Warner Bros. has followed up by confirming that the role of Grindelwald will indeed be recast for the third movie, which is currently in production. It has now been pushed to 2022.
“Johnny Depp will depart the Fantastic Beasts franchise. We thank Johnny for his work on the films to date. Fantastic Beasts 3 is currently in production, and the role of Gellert Grindelwald will be recast. The film will debut in theaters worldwide in the summer of 2022.”