Actor Johnny Depp resurfaces in Hollywood's circle following a significant legal dispute
Johnny Depp is reuniting with Hollywood for a new project, according to recent reports. The acclaimed actor, who won a libel case against his ex-wife Amber Heard in 2022, is set to star in a thriller titled "Day Drinker."
Depp will be working alongside long-time collaborator Penélope Cruz in the film, which marks their fourth collaboration together. The project, directed by Marc Webb, is anticipated for release in 2026.
Sources close to Depp revealed to In Touch Weekly that he is excited to be back on set. "This is a long-awaited return for Johnny," they said. "He was essentially in exile after his legal battles. But his victory at trial over Amber opened the door for him to slowly rebuild his reputation and start working again."
In the upcoming film, Depp plays a mysterious guest named Kelly on a luxury yacht. The storyline involves a criminal network connected to a dangerous figure portrayed by Cruz, with Madelyn Cline starring as a young bartender who encounters Kelly.
"Johnny has a great rapport and history with Penélope, going back decades," the source added. "At one point, people predicted this day would never come, that he'd be ostracized from Hollywood forever. But he's ready to come back, and his goal is to have a full comeback on the big screen."
Filming for Day Drinker began in April 2025 in Tenerife and later moved to Vilanova i la Geltrú in Catalonia, Spain. The seaside setting, particularly a yacht docked at Vilanova Grand Marina, has been extensively utilized for the film.
The production also features a mix of established stars and younger actors such as Madelyn Cline and Spanish actor Manu Ríos. Despite the turbulence Depp faced in recent years, he is ready to return to major roles in high-profile projects.
Delving into the world of Hollywood, Johnny Depp's upcoming movie "Day Drinker" promises a compelling blend of history with his fourth collaboration alongside Penélope Cruz, along with a splash of entertainment as he ventures into unfamiliar territory with the portrayal of a mysterious character, Kelly, against the backdrop of a criminal network. This venture into the big screen, following his legal battles, also unveils a reunion with his fellow celebrities, marking an anticipated return to the limelight for the acclaimed actor.
