Johnny Depp-Amber overheard trial: Warner Bros. executive says actress casting concerns in “Aquaman” sequel had to do with her chemistry with Jason Momoa

Johnny Depp’s legal team began a counterattack on Tuesday with a video of Walter Hamada, CEO of Warner Bros., saying they were concerned about Amber Heard’s involvement. aquaman The sequel was about her chemistry with Jason Momoa.

In a $ 100 million libel suit and testimony against Depp, Herd argued that her role was diminished as she stumbled upon a “smear campaign” orchestrated by her ex-husband, as well as a lawsuit against him.

How to watch the hearing of the Johnny Depp-Amber trial: schedule and live streaming

Hamada, in testimony taped earlier this year, said the studio pick was delayed in Heard’s lottery due to concerns about his chemistry with Momoa in the first film.

“You know it when you see it, and the chemistry wasn’t there,” Hamada said.

He said that, first of all, their interaction improved aquaman Through post-production editing and the contribution of director James Van.

“A good editor and director can choose the right shots, choose the right moments,” he said.

When Herd’s attorney suggested that editing was a normal part of the shooting process, he said, “Sometimes it’s easier than others.” He said improving the chemistry between Momoa and Herd was more difficult, but “the end result works.”

There was a discussion about finding someone who had more “natural chemistry” with Momo, but Herd eventually got involved, Hamada said.

Photo gallery: Johnny Depp’s film roles over the years

Herd’s agent Jessica Kovacevic revealed last week that Herd’s contract stipulated that she would be paid $ 2 million upfront for the extension, which is reportedly double what the actress had. initially earned. aquaman. But Kovacevic said Herd’s career suffered from the negative publicity surrounding the lawsuit against Depp. In his counterclaim, Herd argues that Waldman’s allegations of preparing domestic violence charges against Depp damaged his reputation.

Hamada said he would not consider paying Herd more for the extension, but that his compensation would not be affected by what Johnny Depp or one of his lawyers, Adam Waldman, said. He said Momoa’s payment was delayed by Aquaman’s extension. He also stated that the size of Herd’s role was determined by the initial development of the script in 2018.

On Monday, producer Catherine Arnold, Herd’s expert witness, confirmed that Momoa and Van were rooting for the actor to pursue the role. aquaman and the lost kingdom It will be released in 2023, but there is an online petition to remove it from the film due to litigation.

Hamada’s Warner Bros. ditched Depp from Fantastic Beasts 3 after losing a libel suit in the UK for filing a complaint against The Sun that he was a “wife beater”. Depp said the firm asked him to resign to continue.