Johnny Depp “Tears Up” as He Returns to the Big Screen After a Long Hiatus

Despite facing numerous challenges in the past year, Johnny Depp continues to captivate the audience. The acclaimed actor, who has maintained a low profile since 2022, experienced an overwhelming reception at the highly anticipated Cannes Film Festival’s opening night. Depp was visibly moved as the audience showered him and his film with unprecedented praise.

A triumphant comeback

The actor was received with resounding cheers of support intermingled with sporadic applause. This fervent display of admiration marked his return to the public eye.

For the 59-year-old actor, this moment represented the ultimate vindication. His elation at reclaiming his position within the Hollywood community was palpable, having faced expulsion from various projects, including the Fantastic Beasts film series.

Amidst the lively atmosphere, numerous witnesses recounted how the crowds fervently chanted, “Johnny!” in unison. Sporting stylish purple-tinted sunglasses, Depp graciously signed autographs, gradually stepping back into the limelight.

The movie, directed by and co-starring Maïwenn, also featuring Depp in a prominent role, has been touted as his much-anticipated comeback. However, the actor’s prominent presence at the Cannes Film Festival has sparked passionate discussions and debates.

As expected, the occasion drew in an array of renowned celebrities from the entertainment industry. A-listers, such as Michael Douglas, Catherine Zeta-Jones, Uma Thurman, Elle Fanning, and Helen Mirren, captivated onlookers as they gracefully made their way to the screening, leaving a lasting impression.

A 7-minute standing ovation brought the actor to tears.

Furthermore, during the film festival, the actor was observed experiencing visible emotions as his latest film garnered a remarkable 7-minute standing ovation.

Depp was spotted looking teary-eyed, and in an attempt to hide his emotions, he covered his face with his hands and subsequently embraced the director standing next to him.

Selecting the movie as the festival opener was subject to criticism.

Thierry Fremaux, the director of the Cannes Film Festival, faced criticism for selecting Depp’s movie as the festival opener. The decision drew backlash due to the recent defamation trial. In response, Fremaux stated, “We only know one thing, it’s the justice system, and I think he won the legal case.” Fremaux referred to Depp’s victory in the trial as the basis for his decision to include the film as the festival opener.

The filmmaker has gotten as much attention off-screen as Depp has on.

Jeanne Du Barry narrates the tale of Jeanne Vaubernier, the mistress of King Louis XV. The director, Maïwenn, who also stars in the film, has faced her own share of controversy.

She admitted to assaulting a journalist, leading to a police complaint filed by Edwy Plenel, the editor-in-chief of Mediapart magazine on March 7. Plenel stated in an interview that he did not know Maïwenn and would not have been able to recognize her. He described the incident as more shocking than anything else.

The highly-anticipated period piece was shot over the summer and, along with being his career comeback, this also marks the actor’s first film in French. However, this is not the first time Depp has accepted challenging roles, which is one of the reasons he remains a true gem in Hollywood.

As Johnny Depp turns 60, he has made the decision not to return to the Pirates of the Caribbean series, severing ties with Disney due to resentment over his contract termination during his legal battle with Amber Heard.

In an unexpected casting choice, Depp’s portrayal of Willy Wonka in Charlie and the Chocolate Factory was met with mixed reactions, with some viewers finding his performance a benchmark, while others felt it was a black mark on his career.

Despite his celebrity status, Depp, like many others, has shown excitement when meeting his own heroes, demonstrating that even stars can be starstruck, further humanizing his image in the public eye.