Anais Gutierrez
‘Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them’ director David Yates defend the re-cast of Johnny Depp in the sequel movie. Yates stepped up following backlash from fans over Depp’s recast in the movie.
Earlier this month, Warner announced the cast of the sequel of ‘Fantastic Beasts’. They met huge backlash due to Depp’s ex-wife Amber Heard making domestic violence accusations against the actor two years ago.
Defending the decision
The fact of Johnny Depp being recast for the ‘Fantastic Beasts’ sequel ignited backlash. At a time in Hollywood when many men have lost projects in the wake of harassment allegations.
In an interview with Entertainment Weekly published Tuesday, director David Yates defended his decision.
“With Johnny, it seems to me there was one person who took a pop at him and claimed something. I can only tell you about the man I see every day: He’s full of decency and kindness, and that’s all I see. Whatever accusation was out there doesn’t tally with the kind of human being I’ve been working with,” he started.
Yates differentiated Heard’s accusations against Depp from those made about men including Harvey Weinstein and Kevin Spacey.
“It’s very different [than cases] where there are multiple accusers over many years that need to be examined and we need to reflect on our industry that allows that to roll on year in and year out,” he said.
“Johnny isn’t in that category in any shape or form. So to me, it doesn’t bear any more analysis. It’s a dead issue.”
Depp made a cameo in last November’s ‘Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them’. The sequel, which will feature Depp in a more prominent role, is slated for release on Nov. 16, 2018.
Domestic violence accusations
Actress Amber Heard separated from Depp in May 2016. The actress alleged domestic abuse.
At the beginning of the divorce proceedings, Heard appeared in public with a bruise on her cheek, which she claimed was caused by Depp, and consequently got a restraining order.
The couple released this joint statement in three months later and eventually came to a private settlement.
“Our relationship was intensely passionate and at times volatile, but always bound by love. Neither party has made false accusations for financial gain, ”
“There was never any intent of physical or emotional harm. Amber wishes the best for Johnny in the future. Amber will be donating financial proceeds from the divorce to a charity.”
Heard has since become a vocal advocate for victims of domestic violence, and did donate her $7 million settlement to the Children’s Hospital of Los Angeles and the ACLU.
Source: EW
