Johnny Depp is open to returning as Captain Jack Sparrow in Pirates of the Caribbean 6, but the actor says he has one key reason for considering another voyage: giving the beloved franchise a more satisfying ending.
Speaking with Entertainment Tonight while promoting his upcoming film Ebenezer, Depp discussed the possibility of reuniting with longtime producer Jerry Bruckheimer for another Pirates movie. The actor made it clear that he is not simply interested in reprising the role for another sequel.
“If things are exactly where they need to be with regard to how they are going to top off the Pirates thing,” Depp said, “the only involvement I really want to have, truly, is just to send them off on a better note.”
The comments offer a hopeful update for fans who have been waiting to see Depp return as the iconic pirate after his last appearance in 2017’s Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Men Tell No Tales.
Jerry Bruckheimer Wants Jack Sparrow Back
Depp also expressed his continued trust in Bruckheimer, who has produced all five films in the franchise. The actor said he would happily work with the producer again, regardless of the project.
“I’ll go to work with Bruckheimer tomorrow for anything,” Depp said. “Doesn’t matter… if it’s Jerry, I trust him. We have deep friendship.”
Bruckheimer has repeatedly expressed interest in bringing Depp back for the sixth film. In August, the producer told Deadline at Disney’s D23 event that discussions with the actor were ongoing while the screenplay continued to develop.
The next movie is reportedly being developed as a reboot, although Bruckheimer has said he would like Depp to be involved if the story gives the character a worthwhile role.
Why a Jack Sparrow Return Matters
Depp’s Captain Jack Sparrow became the defining character of the franchise after the original The Curse of the Black Pearl arrived in 2003. His eccentric performance helped turn the adventure film into a global phenomenon and earned him an Academy Award nomination.
The five Pirates of the Caribbean movies have collectively grossed more than $4.5 billion worldwide. However, the franchise has been without a new theatrical instalment since 2017.
Depp previously said during his 2022 defamation trial that he would not return to the series, following his departure from the franchise. His latest comments suggest that a meaningful story and a proper farewell could change that position.
Is Pirates of the Caribbean 6 Confirmed?
No official cast, release date or production schedule has been announced for Pirates of the Caribbean 6. Depp has not confirmed that he has signed on, and the project remains in development.
For now, his comments offer a possibility rather than a formal comeback announcement. If the filmmakers can deliver the ending Depp wants for Jack Sparrow, the legendary pirate may yet get one more adventure on the big screen.
