Johnny Depp will return to mainstream cinema as Scrooge in a remake of ‘A Christmas Carol.’

Johnny Depp is reportedly on the brink of staging a significant comeback as he nears an agreement to portray Ebenezer Scrooge in Paramount Pictures’ forthcoming adaptation of Charles Dickens’ classic, “A Christmas Carol.” Directed by Ti West, known for his work in the horror genre, this film is expected to blend traditional elements of the beloved story with unexpected creative dimensions that West might introduce.

At 62 years old, Depp’s career experienced considerable challenges in the years following public abuse allegations made by his former wife, Amber Heard. However, sources indicate that he is now engaged in final discussions to take on the lead role in “Ebenezer: A Christmas Carol.” Expected to begin production soon, the film aims for a release during the holiday season in November 2025, marking Depp’s first major studio film since 2018’s “Fantastic Beasts: The Crimes of Grindelwald.”

West, who has primarily directed horror films, including the acclaimed “X” trilogy, has yet to reveal whether his interpretation of “A Christmas Carol” will incorporate any elements of the horror genre. The project has already generated interest due to the divergent paths of its director and lead actor.

Joining Depp in the film is Andrea Riseborough, an actress who has also found herself amid controversy, though of a considerably different nature. Riseborough gained significant attention following her nomination for Best Actress at the 2023 Academy Awards for her performance in “To Leslie.” This nomination came under scrutiny when her campaign tactics were investigated, leading to concerns regarding potential violations of Academy rules. However, no action was taken to rescind her nomination.

The upcoming film is a crucial step in Depp’s gradual return to the entertainment industry after facing significant obstacles that nearly derailed his career. Following a highly publicized joint defamation trial with Heard in 2022 that captured media attention and divided public opinion, both actors have navigated reputational challenges. As they pursue new projects, the outcome of this adaptation and their respective roles could reshape their public perceptions.

Overall, Depp’s upcoming portrayal of Scrooge is not just a noteworthy progression in his career; it also reflects a larger narrative about redemption and resilience within the entertainment industry as it adapts to evolving cultural sensitivities. As Paramount gears up for this notable release, industry experts will be watching closely to see how audiences respond to this adaptation and the performances within it.