Johnny Depp has returned to the spotlight in a big way, revealing a dramatic transformation for his role in the upcoming thriller 'Day Drinker.' The 61-year-old actor, best known for his iconic roles in 'Pirates of the Caribbean' and 'Edward Scissorhands,' is almost unrecognizable in his new look for the new project.
In a new photo shared by Lionsgate, the actor can be seen sporting a full gray beard, blue contact lenses, and silver hair—an incredible departure from his signature dark brown hair. The star was pictured on set holding a drink, ahead of his comeback role following the controversy caused by his legal battle.
The actor's transformation is striking, embracing a "silver fox" appearance for his character. While details about the new project remain under wraps, it is known that the thriller, directed by Marc Webb, features Depp as a "mysterious" guest aboard a private yacht who forms an unexpected bond with a grieving bartender, played by Madelyn Cline.
As the plot develops, the two characters become entwined with a criminal figure, portrayed by Depp's longtime collaborator, played by Penélope Cruz. The two stars have previously worked together in films such as Blow (2001), Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides (2011), and Murder on the Orient Express (2017).
"I’m excited to be starting production with Johnny, Madelyn, Penélope and this incredible cast," the director revealed. "We’re in a beautiful location with a fantastic crew and a thrilling, ferocious story to tell," he added. "This is gonna be fun."
His return to the big screen comes after a tumultuous period marked by his defamation trial with ex-wife Amber Heard in 2022. The trial gained significant media attention. Despite ongoing legal battles, the two eventually agreed to a settlement, with Heard paying Depp $1 million, which he donated to charity.
The actor previously talked about his acting comeback following the legal battle. "I keep wondering about the word comeback because I didn't go anywhere," he said during a Cannes Film Festival press conference. "Maybe people stopped calling out of whatever their fear was at the time. But no, I didn't go nowhere. I've been sitting around."