From lawsuits to public feuds: Controversies that kept Johnny Depp in headlines

Hollywood’s distinguished star, Johnny Depp, has never failed to shine in the headlines – whether about successful films or public feuds that caused netizens to speculate (sometimes, to the extent of getting the whole special documentary on an OTT platform). The 62-year-old actor has created an indelible mark on Hollywood with his classic films, and also with the brewing international controversies from parties, arrests, trials, and more. Amongst numerous allegations over the years, some made an impact larger than getting sections in tabloids. Let’s take a look at some controversies and feuds of Johnny Depp over the years, leading to his reputation being at stake.

Was the internet divided after watching every televised argument? Yes. Did the iconic feud keep everyone entertained for months? Oh, YES. The never-before-seen defamation trial occurred from April 2022 to June 2022 in Fairfax County, Virginia. Depp, being the plaintiff, filed a defamation case against his ex-wife, actress, and the defendant Amber Heard. While he asked for USD 50 million in damages, she countersued the ‘Sleepy Hollow’ actor for USD 100 million. The defamation was against her claims of violence and physical abuse, but he expressed in the lawsuit that she was rather an instigator than a victim. The case ended with Depp getting USD 10 million in compensatory damages, and Heard receiving USD 2 million, according to Variety.

In 2017, Johnny Depp sued his former business managers, The Management Group. Accusing the firm of mismanagement after failing to pay taxes that resulted in USD 8.3 million as a penalty, the actor sought USD 25 million in damages. However, the distinguished firm countersued, claiming that the 62-year-old spent his fortune on luxury items, including residences, staff, liquor, private jets, and more. Both parties ended the case with a settlement, which has remained confidential, according to Variety.

Johnny Depp was sued in 2017 by a crew member, Gregg “Rocky” Brookes, who worked for the film ‘City of Lies.’ Claiming that Depp punched him twice in the ribs during an extensive foul-mouthed tirade, Brookes filed the case in Los Angeles. The lawsuit mentioned that the actor reeked of alcohol and consumed drugs. As a part of the altercation, Depp reportedly offered USD 100,000 to punch him in the face. The settlement was reached in July 2022, but the terms were not disclosed, according to Variety.

Johnny Depp and his then-wife, Amber Heard, were given an ultimatum by the Australian government in 2015. After the duo brought their two Yorkshire Terriers, Boo and Pistol, via private jet into Queensland while filming ‘Pirates of the Caribbean,’ they were accused of not declaring to customs officials and breaching quarantine rules. Finally, the dogs were exported back to the United States of America, while the then-couple apologised with the infamously awkward video, according to the BBC report.