Johnny Depp returns to a major Hollywood lead role in Christmas film Ebenezer

Johnny Depp is returning to a major Hollywood leading role in Ebenezer, a new adaptation of A Christmas Carol scheduled for release on November 13, following years of legal disputes and a period working mainly on independent films.

The Paramount production is directed by Ti West and also stars Rupert Grint, Ian McKellen and Daisy Ridley. Promotional material presents the film as a return for Depp, whose recent screen work includes the French film Jeanne du Barry. He is also due to appear alongside Penelope Cruz in Day Drinker.

Depp left the Fantastic Beasts series after a British court ruled in 2020 that a newspaper's description of him as a wife-beater was substantially true. He has continued to deny abuse allegations. In a separate US civil defamation case in 2022, the jury found in favour of both Depp and Amber Heard on different claims, awarding Depp the larger damages sum. The former couple later settled.

The new role has drawn contrasting reactions. Supporters see it as recognition of his acting ability, while critics object to his return to prominent studio work in light of the allegations and litigation. The film's release will test whether the renewed studio backing translates into audience support.