Johnny Depp exited the Wizarding World and has been replaced by Mads Mikkelsen (Rogue One: A Star Wars Story, Doctor Strange, Hannibal). As a result, Mikkelsen immediately takes over the role of Gellert Grindelwald in the third Fantastic Beasts film. The sequel is currently in production in the United Kingdom.
Depp’s removal from the role comes after the actor lost his lawsuit with a British tabloid. The Sun reported that he abused his former wife, Aquaman star Amber Heard. Heard has been the subject of an online petition wanting her removed from Aquaman 2 as a “known and proven domestic abuser” and liar in regards to her relationship with Depp. The petition has received over 1.5 million signatures.
Mikkelsen becomes the third actor to play the role after Depp and Colin Farrell. Farrell played the part in the first film, Fantastic Beasts And Where To Find Them. Although he was playing the character in disguise, it was revealed that it was Depp at the end of the film.
Mikkelsen was one of several actors known for playing baddies Warner Brothers was rumored to be interested in for the role. Speculation included Nikolaj Coster-Waldaul (Game of Thrones), Cillian Murphy (Batman Begins), and Daniel Bruhl (Captain America Civil War). However, the Danish actor’s history of playing creepy villains such as Kaecillus in Doctor Strange or Le Chiffe in Casino Royale made him one of the best choices to play Grindelwald.
But fans of Depp shouldn’t worry about the actor losing work. Even though he only shot one scene before being let go, Warner Brothers still has to pay him. Depp will earn a cool $10 million for his brief time on set, thanks to a pay or play clause in his contract.
Fantastic Beasts 3, directed by David Yates, is scheduled to be released in theaters on July 15, 2022.
