Johnny Depp may return at some point in the Pirates of the Caribbean reboot. Depp is known for playing the iconic Jack Sparrow, the leading protagonist of the series. The movies were inspired by the Disneyland attraction of the same name and eventually exploded into a five-movie series that has performed well at the box office. It has earned approximately $4.5 billion and is expected to continue with a sixth Pirates of the Caribbean movie that is expected to be a reboot for the franchise.

While Depp is unlikely to star in the reboot, there is still a chance that he could appear and potentially reprise his role. When questioned by Entertainment Tonight, producer Jerry Bruckheimer explained that there is still an opportunity for Depp to appear, especially if Bruckheimer has a say. He even admitted that he has already spoken to Depp about potentially appearing in the future reboot. Check out his full quote below:

The cropped poster for Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Men Tell No Tales featuring the main cast with Johnny Depp's Jack Sparrow at the front

If it was up to me, of course. I love having Depp… He’s a great actor and good friend… I’ve certainly spoken to him, but we’ll see what happens.

Why Johnny Depp May Yet Return In Future Pirates Of The Caribbean Movies

Depp Is An Integral Part Of The Franchise

Johnny Depp as Captain Jack Sparrow looking at Penelope Cruz in Pirates of the Caribbean 5

Throughout his years with the Pirates of the Caribbean franchise, Depp has defined the role of Jack Sparrow. He always stands out as the joyful swashbuckling pirate, darting from battle to battle as he brings positive energy to every fight. He is often presented as the primary draw on every poster, every trailer, and every scene. Depp is an integral part of the franchise and has become the primary face behind the concept since 2003’s Curse Of The Black Pearl’s premiere. Without Depp, it is unlikely that Pirates would ever have been quite as successful.

Yet, despite his contributions, the franchise may soon be expanding away from Depp. The highly publicized Johnny Depp vs. Amber Heard defamation case brought rebukes against both parties, and the famously family-friendly Disney may want to distance itself from the controversy. While Bruckheimer indicated that they have already invited him back for the upcoming Pirates of the Caribbean 6 reboot, he will likely not be taking a leading role. Still, any level of involvement indicates that Disney believes that it can still embrace Depp, who won the defamation case against Heard.

Johnny Depp as Jack Sparrow Atop a Building in Pirates of The Caribbean 5

Another reason for Depp’s diminishing role is that he may have aged out of his position. At 60-years-old, swashbuckling may be behind the actor, who has been transitioning into a role as a director. His upcoming movie Modi, for instance, is directed by Depp and stars Al Pacino. Since the pandemic, Depp has also been taking fewer prominent roles. Stepping back from acting could be a reason for Disney to seek a reboot after two decades of Jack Sparrow. Even so, it is likely that Depp could still return for a Pirates of the Caribbean reboot movie.