Johnny Depp is set to portray Ebenezer Scrooge in a new adaptation of Charles Dickens’ classic story, A Christmas Carol, marking a surprising addition to his filmography as he seeks a major comeback. Recent photos from the set of Ti West’s Ebenezer: A Christmas Carol reveal Depp almost unrecognizable under heavy makeup and costume, alongside Andrea Riseborough as the Ghost of Christmas Past.
First Glimpse of Depp’s Transformation and Project Details
The newly released images show Depp fully immersed in the role of the curmudgeonly miser, signaling a fresh take on the familiar holiday narrative. This film is one of two contemporary versions of A Christmas Carol currently underway, the other directed by Robert Eggers and featuring Willem Defoe as Scrooge. Although story specifics remain limited, the influence of Ti West—known for the ‘X’ horror trilogy—suggests this adaptation may diverge from Dickens’ original tone.
The cast also includes Tramell Tillman, known for his work on Severance, and veteran actor Ian McKellen. Paramount Pictures is slated to release the movie on November 13, 2026, provided production proceeds smoothly. This project represents Depp’s largest film role since his gradual reentry into Hollywood over recent years.
Johnny Depp’s Career Rebuilding Efforts
Following his highly publicized defamation trial involving Amber Heard, Depp has been steadily accumulating diverse roles in independent and international cinema. His recent performances include portraying Louis XV in the 2023 historical drama Jeanne du Barry and directing the 2024 film Modi: Three Days on the Wing of Madness.
In addition to playing Scrooge, Depp will appear alongside Penélope Cruz in the action thriller Day Drinker, a story about a private yacht bartender and their encounter with a mysterious figure that entangles them in a dangerous criminal world.
Other Upcoming Projects and Collaborations
Rumors also link Depp to the first English-language adaptation of Mikhail Bulgakov’s celebrated Russian novel The Master and Margarita, described as involving
“the devil’s reappearance in Moscow, along with a talking cat named Behemoth and other unsavory characters who create havoc among the corrupt citizens of the city.”
He is further speculated to reunite with visionary director Terry Gilliam, known for The Imaginarium of Doctor Parnassus, in the fantasy film Carnival, reportedly portraying Satan.
Key Cast Members in Ebenezer: A Christmas Carol
- Johnny Depp as Ebenezer Scrooge
- Tramell Tillman as the Ghost of Christmas Present
- Andrea Riseborough as the Ghost of Christmas Past
- Ian McKellen in an undisclosed role
This adaptation of A Christmas Carol represents a significant moment for Depp’s continued comeback, placing him in a major holiday-themed production backed by Paramount Pictures. With Ti West’s distinctive directorial style and a strong ensemble cast, the film promises an intense and potentially darker interpretation of Dickens’ miserly protagonist, setting expectations for a unique holiday thriller when it premieres in late 2026.
