Johnny Depp’s 2023 producer thinks the actor is ready for a Hollywood return with Ebenezer

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Johnny Depp was embroiled in legal and personal issues in the early 2020s, with the biggest situation being his defamation case with ex-wife Amber Heard. The Oscar nominee received a rather favorable verdict in 2022, and since then he has been gradually returning to the entertainment industry. On that note, his latest feature is the 2026 film calendar entry, Ebenezer. Now, in the midst of this phase of his career, one of Depp’s most recent producers is waking up to the prospect of his return.

In 2023, Depp starred in the French historical drama film Jeanne du Barryand the film sees him playing the role of Louis XV. Nellee Holmes was one of the executive producers of this film and she recently spoke to CNN as part of a wide-ranging article on Depp. Holmes was very complimentary of the actor, calling him a “good human being.” According to the producer, Depp has made connections with “people who trust him” and who still believe in him. As for the quality of the protagonist’s work, Holmes had this to say:

You can’t say anything that makes it bad. His work is his weapon.

In terms of Jeanne du BarryThe film made headlines several years ago because it was Depp’s first film after the trial. The biopic was directed by Maïwenn, who also starred alongside Depp as the title character. Ultimately, the film debuted at the Cannes Film Festival in May 2023, and Depp received a standing ovation. Despite this praise, Maïwenn would later claim that it was “difficult” to work with Depp due to creative differences and personal conduct.

All that aside, Holmes is convinced that Ebenezer will mark a turning point for Depp. The film was announced in October 2025, and around that time it was also confirmed that horror specialist Ti West would direct it. A few months ago, West praised Depp’s portrayal of the titular Ebenezer Scrooge, noting that he has this “cadence and musicality in the way he plays.” Further praise came from Depp’s co-star Rupert Grint, who simply called it “so iconic.”

This holiday film isn’t the only production Depp has on the horizon, either. It should also make the headlines Day drinkerwhich is a supernatural thriller from director Marc Webb set to release in the middle of the 2027 film schedule. There have also been rumors of a third Pirates of the Caribbean the film is in the works, thanks to feedback from producer Jerry Bruckheimer. It’s unclear if Depp would star in the film, but he joked that he might not be able to grow facial hair anymore if he reprises Captain Jack Sparrow.

Ironically, while there is talk of Depp’s “return” to Hollywood, he prefers not to use this term. Depp previously admitted to being confused by the word applied to his situation, as he “didn’t go anywhere” to begin with. Yet it does indeed appear that the star’s career is on an upward trajectory, and meanwhile, he seems to have the likes of Nelle Holmes and Ti West in his corner.

Discover Johnny Depp in Ebenezer when it hits theaters on November 13. Also be on the lookout for Day Drinker, which is scheduled to hit theaters on March 26, 2027.