Depp Fired From 'Fantastic Beasts' After Libel Loss

Johnny Depp was dismissed from the 'Fantastic Beasts' franchise by Warner Bros. in 2020 after losing a UK libel case involving allegations of domestic abuse by ex-wife Amber Heard. Depp had already filmed scenes for the third installment and was replaced by Mads Mikkelsen as Gellert Grindelwald, but received his full salary due to his contract. Depp has openly expressed frustration with the studio's decision and claims the dismissal negatively impacted his career and personal relationships. The franchise struggled after his exit, with the final film becoming the lowest-grossing in the Wizarding World series. Warner Bros. subsequently canceled further sequels, leaving the story unresolved. Despite reduced screen appearances, Depp maintains that efforts to harm his reputation have not succeeded.