Johnny Depp is stepping back into the spotlight with his first Hollywood studio film since his departure from Fantastic Beasts 3.
After his courtroom battles with Amber Heard, Depp took on a role in Jeanne du Barry, a film outside the Hollywood system. This project was directed by French director Maïwenn and involved primarily French talent, taking place in Versailles. It marked Depp’s first work following the high-profile Depp v Heard case.
Day Drinker is set to be Depp’s return to a major studio project since his 2020 dismissal from Fantastic Beasts: The Secrets of Dumbledore. Warner Bros. requested his resignation after he lost a libel lawsuit against a UK newspaper group that had called him a ‘wife beater’.
The film’s plot revolves around a bartender on a private yacht who encounters a mysterious guest and a criminal figure. Recently released images show Depp, now 61, in his role.
In these images, Depp’s character is depicted wearing a navy suit and a light blue shirt, embodying the enigmatic guest. His appearance is notable for his long, greying hair pulled back, a grey beard, and striking blue eyes.
In one hand, he holds a drink, befitting the film’s title, and he sports a gold ring on his right pinky finger.
Fans quickly reacted to his dramatically altered look.
One Instagram user commented: “Did not realise that was Johnny Depp till I read the caption!”
Another exclaimed: “SILVER FOX status ACTIVATEd!!!!”
A third added: “Welcome again!!!”
A fourth person speculated: “Based on what I Heard about the script and everything, this is gonna even more HUGE than it seems, such an awesome comeback, can’t wait.”
Depp shares the screen with Madelyn Cline from Outer Banks and Penélope Cruz from Ferrari, along with Manu Ríos and Arón Piper from Elite, Juan Diego Botto from Good Behavior, and Anika Boyle from Made in Caravan, according to Variety.
The film’s screenplay is penned by Zach Dean, while Marc Webb, known for Snow White, takes on directing duties.
Produced by Basil Iwanyk and Erica Lee of Thunder Road, along with Adam Kolbrenner and Zach Dean, Day Drinker began production in Spain.
The movie is expected to hit theaters in 2026.