Actor Johnny Depp is in talks to return as Captain Jack Sparrow in a sixth Pirates of the Caribbean movie, producer Jerry Bruckheimer confirmed.
Speaking in a recent interview about the future of the Disney franchise, Bruckheimer said that the production team is talking with Depp and working on a new script that they hope to move forward.
The sixth installment of the high-seas fantasy series has been a subject of discussion for several years. While subtle details have surfaced indicating the project exists, it remains in its early development stages. The talks come as Depp gradually resumes his relationship with Hollywood and rebuilds his career as a leading actor following recent professional uncertainty.
The Pirates of the Caribbean franchise debuted in 2003 with The Curse of the Black Pearl, quickly becoming a major commercial success. Driven by Depp's popular performance as Jack Sparrow, the five released installments have grossed more than 4.5 billion dollars at the global box office.
Script development and plot details
Screenwriters Craig Mazin and Ted Elliott, known for their work on the adaptation of The Last of Us, are currently working on the continuation of the cinematic universe. Mazin clarified that the writing team had come up with a story that he described as really cool, though specific narrative directions remain unconfirmed.
While the final scene of the fifth movie hinted at the arrival of the villainous Davy Jones, it is not known whether the new film will continue that plot line. Industry speculation has also linked actress Margot Robbie to a role in the project, though Depp's return as Jack Sparrow has been considered from the start of development.
Release status and future outlook
Despite the ongoing script work and discussions between Bruckheimer and Depp, Jack Sparrow's return is still not definitive. Disney has not confirmed a release date for the sixth installment, and the franchise's future has carried lingering uncertainty following a more divided reception for the previous movie.
