For many of us, the Pirates of the Caribbean movies were a big part of our childhood. They remind us of the exciting adventures we watched on the big screen. Now, fans can get excited again to witness the nostalgia, as two new movies in the franchise are on the way!
After years of rumors, producer Jerry Bruckheimer confirmed that Disney is making a reboot and a spin-off featuring Hollywood favorite Margot Robbie. However, fans of Johnny Depp aren’t pleased. And, it looks like even the addition of the popular Barbie star hasn’t won them over.
Two Pirates of the Caribbean Films are in the Works
One of the two upcoming Pirates movies will be a complete reboot of the franchise. Screenwriter Jeff Nathanson, who worked on the live-action remake of The Lion King, is writing the script. There aren’t many details about the plot yet, but Jerry Bruckheimer mentioned an “amazing third act” that he’s excited about. The film producer said in an interview with EW:
He’s got an amazing third act. We just gotta clean up the first and second, and then we’ll get there. But he wrote a great, great third act.
The second film will be a spin-off with a female lead, starring Margot Robbie. This project has been in the works for years. The actress was initially disappointed by Disney’s hesitation (as she told Vanity Fair), but Bruckheimer said the studio is now fully supporting it. Christina Hodson, who wrote Birds of Prey, is the screenwriter for it.
Fans’ Disappointment Over the Two Upcoming Pirates of the Caribbean Films
The biggest question on every fan’s mind is: will Johnny Depp return as the iconic Captain Jack Sparrow? While the reboot will definitely feature new actors, Bruckheimer left the door open for Depp’s possible involvement. He said:
It’s a reboot, but if it was up to me, he would be in it. I love him. He’s [Johnny Depp] a good friend. He’s an amazing artist, and he’s a unique look. He created Captain Jack.
However, die-hard Depp fans are quite upset about the uncertainty. Check out some fan reactions:
Get ready for the worst Pirates of the Caribbean movies you’ve ever seen
— The BATman (@BiggerBadderBat) May 20, 2024
If Johnny Depp is not casted as the lead we will not be watching
— Alex Matthew (Golf Legend) (@alex_golflegend) May 20, 2024
Jack Sparrow WAS Pirates of the Caribbean. There is no movie without him.
— Tactical Assault Smirk (@Smirktavious) May 20, 2024
No #JohnnyDepp ?
No thank you.— Demvic (@Demvic_) May 20, 2024
How do they not understand from day 1 that none of these will make any money? Bring back Depp or leave the franchise where it is.
— Tyler Lacktin-Doyle (@LacktinDoyle96) May 21, 2024
Captain Jack Sparrow, played by Depp, is a big reason why fans love the franchise. His unique style and behavior made the character special. Many fans think a Pirates movie without the Jeanne du Barry star wouldn’t be the same. They’re worried that no one else can capture Jack Sparrow’s charm like he did.
There’s no news yet on when these movies will hit theaters or if Depp will be involved. But fans can still enjoy watching him in the original Pirates movies, which are available to stream on Disney+.
Frequently asked questions
What two new Pirates of the Caribbean films are in development?
One project is a full franchise reboot written by Jeff Nathanson, who also worked on Disney’s live-action Lion King remake. Producer Jerry Bruckheimer said the script’s third act is in strong shape but other parts still need work. The second is a female-led spin-off starring Margot Robbie, written by Birds of Prey writer Christina Hodson.
Will Johnny Depp return as Captain Jack Sparrow in the reboot?
It’s unconfirmed. Producer Jerry Bruckheimer left the door open, saying he’d want Depp involved if it were up to him and that he loves him, but no casting decision was announced. The reboot is expected to introduce new actors, leaving Depp’s involvement uncertain at the time of the report.
How have fans reacted to the uncertainty over Johnny Depp’s return?
Reaction has been largely negative toward a Depp-free reboot, with fans arguing online that the franchise doesn’t work without his Captain Jack Sparrow performance. Some questioned whether new films could be profitable without him, reflecting how closely the character has become tied to the series’ identity in fans’ minds.
