Johnny Depp’s fans were thrilled to see him make a comeback at the 2023 Cannes Film Festival. The actor had been embroiled in a highly publicized defamation trial with his ex-wife Amber Heard, but the jury ultimately ruled in his favor.
Depp’s attendance at the festival marked his first public appearance since the trial concluded in 2022. He was greeted with a warm reception, with thousands of fans gathered outside the Palais, eager to catch a glimpse of the actor.
As Depp took to the red carpet, he was met with a 7-minute standing ovation. The actor looked visibly moved, holding back tears as he waved to the audience. The ovation was a testament to Depp’s enduring popularity, despite the controversy surrounding him.
Depp’s latest film, “Jeanne Du Bary,” premiered at the festival, marking his first high-profile acting role since the trial. The film tells the story of Jeanne Vaubernier, a working-class woman who rose through the social ranks to become King Louis XV’s lover. Depp plays the role of King Louis XV, alongside Maïwenn, who stars as Vaubernier.
In an interview at the festival, Depp spoke about his experience with the high-profile legal battle, stating that he would not allow it to define him. However, not everyone was pleased with Depp’s presence at the festival. Friends of Amber Heard criticized the event organizers for inviting him, with journalist Eve Barlow accusing them of having a “history of supporting (…) and abusers.”
Despite the backlash, festival director Thierry Fremaux defended the decision to invite Depp, stating that he was following the law and upholding the principles of freedom of thought and speech. Depp’s fans were thrilled to see him back in the spotlight, and it remains to be seen how his career will unfold in the wake of the controversy.
