Following his loss in his court battle, Johnny Depp has been axed from his role in the ‘Fantastic Beasts’ franchise.
Johnny who played Gellert Grindelwald in the on-screen adaptation of JK Rowling’s Harry Potter spin-off has shared a statement on his Instagram, revealing he was asked to resign by Warner Brothers, after the court case concluded that he assaulted ex-wife, Amber Heard.
It reads, “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.
Secondly, 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.
Finally, I wish to say this,
The surreal judgement 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 also released a statement, explaining that Depp’s role will be recast. It states that “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 theatres worldwide in the summer of 2022.”
