Rumors have emerged suggesting that Johnny Depp might reprise his role for the sixth installment of the Pirates of the Caribbean franchise, a possibility that has gained attention thanks to Disney insider reports. According to Disinsider, Walt Disney Studios could be quietly initiating production preparations, with Jerry Bruckheimer reportedly considering two different approaches for the upcoming Pirates 6. These developments hint at Depp’s involvement amid ongoing negotiations following his past legal disputes with Amber Heard.
The Status of Margot Robbie’s Proposed Pirates Project
Earlier plans for the next Pirates film included a project developed by Margot Robbie, who in 2020 was reported to be both producing and possibly starring in a storyline centered on Redd, a character originally from the Disneyland ride known as a pirate turned entrepreneur. However, this potential spin-off has seen significant setbacks. By 2022, Robbie herself indicated that the project was likely defunct, leaving the future of her involvement uncertain and the original concept shelved.
New Script Acquisition and Its Impact on Project Progress
In 2023, Disney acquired a script for Pirates 6 authored by Craig Mazin, creator of HBO’s The Last of Us, alongside longtime franchise screenwriter Ted Elliot. While Mazin and Elliot initially believed the screenplay’s unusual tone would deter Disney, the studio ultimately purchased it. Unfortunately, the project stalled due to the timing of the industry strike, delaying any further development or production activity.
“We pitched it and thought there’s no way they’re buying it, it’s too weird. And they did! And then we wrote a fantastic script and the strike happened and everyone’s waiting around.” Craig Mazin, Screenwriter
Jerry Bruckheimer’s Ambiguous Comments on the Franchise’s Direction
Jerry Bruckheimer, the producing veteran behind Pirates and numerous Hollywood hits, recently hinted at uncertainty surrounding the next film while promoting Guy Ritchie’s The Ministry of Ungentlemanly Warfare. He compared assembling Pirates 6 to coordinating Top Gun sequels, noting the challenges posed by attachment to specific actors. At the same time, he suggested a reboot might be simpler, as it wouldn’t depend on the availability of iconic stars like Depp.
“It’s hard to tell. You don’t know, you really don’t know. You don’t know how they come together. You just don’t know. Because with Top Gun you have an actor who is iconic and brilliant. And how many movies he does before he does Top Gun, I can’t tell you. But we’re gonna reboot Pirates, so that is easier to put together because you don’t have to wait for certain actors.” Jerry Bruckheimer, Producer
Later in the year, Bruckheimer explained to Variety that the franchise’s future might head in two distinct directions: one that includes Johnny Depp’s return and another that branches into a fresh storyline without him, reiterating the studio’s ongoing interest in the Pirates property.
Insider Reports and Uncertainty Around Depp’s Role
Disinsider’s report remains speculative, revealing that sources close to Walt Disney Studios suggest early stages of production activity, possibly involving sound stages in Hollywood. However, no official timeline or confirmation has been provided. The precise nature of Depp’s involvement—whether as the lead character Jack Sparrow, a cameo, or a focus on his character’s son—remains unclear.
Depp’s return also appears contingent on his relationship with Disney, which remains delicate given his highly publicized defamation trial against Amber Heard that began in 2019. Though several years have passed, this history still influences negotiations and public perception.
Availability of Previous Pirates Films
For fans eager to revisit the franchise, all five prior Pirates of the Caribbean films are currently accessible for streaming on Disney+, allowing viewers to experience the saga in full as they await confirmation on the sixth installment.
