Johnny Depp Praised with Standing Ovation at Cannes Film Festival One Year after Amber Heard Trial

Controversial Johnny Depp Praised at 2023 Cannes Film Festival Amidst Return to Spotlight

Amidst his highly anticipated appearance at the 2023 Cannes Film Festival, Johnny Depp, renowned for his role in the “Pirates of the Caribbean” franchise, has been receiving a significant amount of praise. This marks his comeback to the spotlight following a tumultuous defamation trial involving his ex-wife, Amber Heard.

As reported by The Hollywood Reporter, Depp’s arrival on the red carpet for the opening night of his French film, “Jeanne Du Barry,” was met with applause from fans. In the movie, Depp portrays King Louis XV, delivering his lines in French alongside director Maïwenn.

Johnny Depp is teary-eyed as “Jeanne du Barry” receives a seven-minute standing ovation following its premiere at #Cannes2023. https://t.co/vCSwNkhYVL pic.twitter.com/NAigHMBwny

— Variety (@Variety) May 16, 2023

Accompanied by his security team, Depp graciously posed for selfies with admirers and signed autographs while making his way down the carpet. The presence of “Viva Johnny” signs and the resounding chants of his name from onlookers showcased the enthusiasm surrounding his return. The cast of “Jeanne Du Barry” walked the carpet to the tune of The Clash’s hit song, “Should I Stay or Should I Go.”

Inside the theater, Depp and the cast were greeted with a standing ovation, both before and after the film screening. According to the outlet, this heartfelt reception moved Depp and Maïwenn to tears. During a brief speech, Maïwenn highlighted the film’s challenging journey in securing financing.

It’s worth noting that Maïwenn herself has recently faced controversy. She admitted to allegations of spitting at French journalist Edwy Plenel at a restaurant. The festival’s chief, Thierry Fremaux, addressed the choice of Depp’s film to open the event, stating his admiration for Depp as an actor and deferring questions about the casting decision to Maïwenn.

The presence of Depp at the festival has sparked discussions, with actress Brie Larson being questioned about his attendance. However, Larson expressed her lack of understanding regarding the connection between herself and the topic. Known for her advocacy with Time’s Up, Larson’s response indicated her reservations and uncertainty about Depp’s film.

The Cannes Film Festival’s opening-night ceremony featured a multitude of stars gracing the red carpet, including Uma Thurman and Helen Mirren with her distinctive blue hair, carrying a fan labeled “#worthit.” Additionally, actor Michael Douglas was honored with the Palme d’Or award during the ceremony, accompanied by his wife Catherine Zeta-Jones and their daughter, Carys Zeta Douglas.

Depp and Heard’s explosive trial in 2022 resulted in a civil jury awarding Depp $10 million in damages and $2 million to Heard. Despite the legal battle, Depp’s return to the spotlight at Cannes has been met with applause and heightened anticipation for his upcoming projects.