J.K. Rowling Defends Casting Johnny Depp In 'Fantastic Beasts'
After going through a tumultuous divorce with his wife, actor Johnny Depp also dealt with backlash for being cast in the latest wizard series, Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them.
Depp made his debut towards the end of the film when he was revealed to be the feared, dark wizard, Gellert Grindleward. Depp has been confirmed to reprise his role in the second film, The Crimes of Grindelwald, which has continued to receive a mixed reception from fans.
The film's visionary, J.K. Rowling remained silent over her decision to bring Depp in the world of magic but now the writer is speaking up for Depp and defending her decision as well.
Rowling's World Of Magic
Rowling's touched on the subject of Depp's casting on her website, where she stated that she was "comfortable and genuinely happy" with Depp portraying the villainous wizard.
"When Johnny Depp was cast as Grindelwald, I thought he'd be wonderful in the role. However, around the time of filming his cameo in the first movie, stories had appeared in the press that deeply concerned me and everyone most closely involved in the franchise," Rowling stated.
Depp's ex-wife, Amber Heard, accused the actor of "physically and emotionally" abusing her during their one-year marriage. Depp denied these accusations against him, citing that they were "gossip, misinformation, and lies." The former couple reached a settlement and made a joint statement together, reflecting that their relationship was 'passionate' and at times "volatile" but was "always bound by love".
Fans of the series were concerned with Depp being featured in the second film given the drama surrounding the actor. Rowling continued in her statement that she and director David Yates considered recasting the role but ultimately decided not too.
"I accept that there will be those who are not satisfied with our choice of actor in the title role. However, conscience isn't governable by committee. Within the fictional world and outside it, we all have to do what we believe to be the right thing," Rowling ended.
The sequel will pick up where the first movie ended and focus on Grindelwald's escape from prison and his quest to raise pure-blood wizards against non-magical beings. The film will also feature actor, Jude Law, who has been cast as Albus Dumbledore. The film will also give insight into how the former friends became enemies after a tragic event tore them apart.
