Main image via Deadline + Pinterest
Potterheads, we’ve got some sad news for you today.
Johnny Depp has shared that he has exited the Fantastic Beast franchise and left his role as Gellert Grindelwald.
Taking to Instagram with a letter to his fans, the actor shared that he had been “asked to resign” from his role as Grindelwald in the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, and said that he had “respected and agreed to that request.”
Warner Bros. confirmed Johnny’s departure from the franchise and noted that his role would be recast.
“We thank Johnny for his work on the films to date,” the studio said in a statement.
The decision comes after Johnny recent legal battles and he took to social media saying:
“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 asked to resign by Warner Bros. from my role as Grindelwald in Fantastic Beasts and I have respected that and agreed to that request.
Finally I wish to say this, the surreal judgement of the court in the UK 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.
Thank you for reading. Sincerely, Johnny Depp.”
Johnny has played Grindelwald in the first and second Fantastic Beasts and fans are definitely sad to not be able to see him in the third installment.
According to the studio, Fantastic Beasts 3 is currently in production and is looking at a 2022 release.
We’re devastasted to see Johnny say goodbye to Grindelwald!
Who do you think will take over his role? Let us know your thoughts!
Info via BBC