It was basically inevitable, but with the release of the first cast photo from the next Fantastic Beasts movie, it’s official: Johnny Depp will return as Grindelwald, the fiend and former love interest-turned-rival to Jude Law’s Albus Dumbledore. What’s more, Depp’s character has been upgraded to title-worthy villain; W.B. also revealed today that the second film in J.K. Rowling’s second Harry Potter universe series will be subtitled The Crimes of Grindelwald.
As alleged abusers within Hollywood continue to see their stars fall from grace, this announcement might cause a few furrowed brows. Depp’s original casting in the first film ruffled feathers last year, as the reveal of his role in the films came just months after his ex-wife Amber Heard filed for divorce amid allegations of domestic abuse. In the larger context of 2017, Heard’s allegations feel, in some ways, weightier than ever.
Yet still, there’s Depp, leaning against a wizardly platform in his whimsically embroidered pants, smirking into the camera with his character’s one good eye. Christopher Plummer’s services, it seems, will not be needed in the Potter-verse. (The first film earned $814 million worldwide—so regardless of the aura around Depp, it seems the sequel, too, is destined to do just fine.)
For those who need a refresher: Heard and Depp’s divorce got nasty in the spring of 2016, when Heard accused Depp of emotional, verbal, and physical abuse, writing that the actor “pulled her hair, screamed at her and repeatedly hit her and violently grabbed her face.” Depp denied abusing Heard, and when they finalized their divorce, the two also made a joint statement: “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 an 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. There will be no further public statements about this matter.” Heard subsequently donated her entire $7 million settlement from Depp to the American Civil Liberties Union, “with a particular focus to stop violence against women,” and the Children’s Hospital of Los Angeles.
Putting aside the issue of Depp, there’s plenty to admire in this cast photo: Jude Law struggling to hold a wand in a normal fashion; Ezra Miller being Ezra Miller; Zoë Kravitz giving off major “I’m too cool for this holiday party” vibes in merlot silk; Eddie Redmayne awkwardly rocking your grandpa’s favorite pleated slacks; and Dan Fogelman, just being happy to be there. And whatever your feelings about Depp and Grindelwald, keep your eyes on Miller’s character, Credence; I’m still not quite willing to give up on the admittedly crackpot theory that he might just become Voldemort.
