Depp not returning as Jack Sparrow

A ridiculous rumour recently spread through the internet that Depp is set to return to his most iconic role, as Captain Jack Sparrow, for no less than $301 million dollars. The rumour also hinted that a Disney Plus series might be in the works, that would explore the early years of Jack Sparrow, reports Forbes.

$301 million is an insane figure, equal to the entire budget of Pirates of the Caribbean: At World’s End.

“This is made up,” a representative for the actor told NBC News. In testimony provided during a defamation trial between the actor and Amber Heard, Depp’s potential comeback to the franchise was discussed.

Depp received $50 million for the third film, At World’s End, during the peak of his popularity. Even Depp thought he was being overpaid for his work in the franchise; in a 2011 interview with Vanity Fair, he said, “Basically, if they’re going to pay me the stupid money right now, I’m going to take it.”

Hence, it is not logical to think that Disney would pay any actor that amount of money. In fact, the $301 million seems to be a direct reference to a famous moment from the trial, in which Heard’s attorney asked Depp, “if, Disney came to you with $300 million and a million alpacas, nothing on this earth would get you to go back and work with Disney on a Pirates of the Caribbean film? Correct?”

Depp has played Captain Jack Sparrow in five films.