Depp Nears Deal to Return as Jack Sparrow

Johnny Depp is reportedly in advanced talks with Disney to reprise his role as Captain Jack Sparrow in a reboot of the Pirates of the Caribbean franchise, following his removal amid legal battles with ex-wife Amber Heard. Multiple sources indicate that a deal is nearly finalized, with Disney preparing a script specifically for Depp and abandoning an alternative version without him. The reboot aims to revitalize the multi-billion-dollar franchise and potentially allow for further sequels featuring Depp. Depp was initially dropped after facing domestic abuse allegations, losing a UK libel case but later winning a US defamation trial. Fan reactions are now largely supportive, with many seeing Depp as essential to the franchise's success, though some criticism remains. Depp is also set to star in the upcoming film 'Day Drinker' alongside Penélope Cruz.