Actor Johnny Depp has been pegged to return to Disney after another flop from the company.

For those who have been keeping up with Disney over the last several months, you know just how volatile Disney and Marvel Studios’ (2023) starring was for the company. was tabbed as the “fork in the road” for Disney and was expected to impact the direction that .

Amid the backlash that saw and other controversies surrounding the company, Disney saw the worst weekend opening in the history of the , with bringing in just $47 million.

Unfortunately, this isn’t the first film that the company failed to see profits from, and many insiders have credited backlash and the general feeling of controversy surrounding Disney as a reason for some of these failures.

As an answer to what Disney would be doing next in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, shared that they planned to “focus on quality over quantity” in the future. Many insiders have speculated that this could mean major cancellations– — but there is also a feeling that this won’t just apply to the MCU. This, instead, applies to the and one Johnny Depp.

Johnny Depp’s career has spanned several decades, marked by both critical acclaim and commercial success. While Depp has portrayed numerous memorable characters, including a major collaboration with that has involved several movies, one that stands out prominently is his iconic role as Captain Jack Sparrow in the film series.

Depp’s portrayal of Captain Jack Sparrow, starting with , catapulted him to new heights of fame. The character, with his eccentric mannerisms, swaying walk, and smudged eyeliner, became an instant cultural phenomenon. Depp’s ability to infuse humor and depth into the character contributed significantly to the franchise’s success.

The role earned him widespread acclaim, a nomination for the Academy Award for Best Actor, and a Screen Actors Guild Award.

However, the latter part of Depp’s tenure as Captain Jack Sparrow was marred by personal and legal troubles. In 2016, his then-wife, actress , accused him of domestic violence, leading to a highly publicized legal battle. The legal proceedings shed light on Depp’s tumultuous personal life, impacting his public image. As the legal battle unfolded, there was speculation about the future of Depp’s career and his role as .

Later on, amidst the legal controversy, reports surfaced that Depp was no longer part of the franchise. Disney, the studio behind the films, The decision to move forward without the actor generated mixed reactions among fans. Many expressed disappointment at the prospect of a film without Depp’s charismatic Captain Jack Sparrow, while others saw it as an opportunity for a fresh start for the franchise.

Though a judge in a defamation trial ruled heavily in favor of , the actor has continued to be blacklisted in Hollywood. Depp was removed from Warner Bros. and, though there were reports he would join the cast of

which includes up-and-comer Jenna Ortega and friend Tim Burton, he ultimately was not involved in the project.

Depp has been working on other films, including  in which he sat in the director’s chair in a movie that will star Al Pacino. Now, with Depp finishing up this project, speculation has begun again that he could make a major return to Disney.

While Disney has not shared any updates on and Depp’s status since Executive Sean Bailey said the company was “noncommittal” on the actor’s return several months ago, it would seem that the recent developments could only push Disney in the direction of working to try and get Captain Jack Sparrow back for a sixth installment.

After all the controversy surrounding Disney and Depp, there’s no doubt a sixth installment that involves Captain Jack Sparrow would bring in a big number at the box office. As a matter of fact, Depp’s return could prove to be a saving and defining moment for The Walt Disney Company as it attempts to turn the corner.

What do you think the future holds with Johnny Depp and Disney? Let Inside the Magic know in the comments!