Johnny Depp in Talks to Return as Captain Jack Sparrow in 'Pirates of the Caribbean 6'

Hollywood star Johnny Depp could be set to return as Captain Jack Sparrow in the long-awaited 'Pirates of the Caribbean 6', with producer Jerry Bruckheimer confirming that talks are underway as the screenplay continues to take shape.

Speaking to Deadline at D23, Bruckheimer said, “We’re talking with Johnny, we’re working on a screenplay, and hopefully we can get this done.” The comments offer the clearest indication yet that Depp could reprise his most iconic role, although his return has not been officially finalised.

According to reports, the sixth film could take the franchise in a new direction, with Margot Robbie expected to play the central protagonist and Depp potentially appearing as Sparrow in a supporting role. The approach would allow Disney to introduce new characters while retaining one of the franchise's most recognisable figures.

Depp debuted as the eccentric pirate in 'Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl' (2003) and subsequently returned for 'Dead Man's Chest' (2006), 'At World's End' (2007), 'On Stranger Tides' (2011) and 'Dead Men Tell No Tales' (2017). The five films have collectively earned more than $4.5 billion worldwide.

The possibility of Depp's comeback is particularly notable given his complicated history with the franchise. Disney dropped him from the series amid his highly publicised legal battle with former wife Amber Heard. During the 2022 defamation trial, a Virginia jury found Heard liable for defaming Depp, while also awarding damages to Heard on one of her counterclaims. The former couple later reached a settlement.

Depp has previously said he felt boycotted by Hollywood and had expressed strong reservations about returning to Disney's Pirates franchise. However, his latest career developments suggest a renewed presence in major studio cinema.

He is set to headline 'Ebenezer: A Christmas Carol', directed by Ti West, with the film scheduled for November 13, 2026. Depp also made a surprise appearance as Scrooge at San Diego Comic-Con in July, promoting the film and marking a major return to the Hollywood spotlight.

With the Pirates screenplay still under development, Depp's return remains a possibility rather than a confirmed casting announcement. If negotiations succeed, Jack Sparrow could once again sail onto the big screen, this time alongside a new generation of characters.