Depp keeps payment despite exit from film

JOHNNY DEPP will take his full salary from the latest film in the Fantastic Beasts franchise, despite being axed after losing a libel battle over claims he was a “wife beater”.

The Hollywood star was due to reprise his role in the third instalment of the film series, which is a spin- off from the Harry Potter story, until he lost a High Court battle in London this month.

Mr Justice Nicol delivered damning findings that Depp assaulted the actress Amber Heard, his ex-wife, on several occasions. Warner Bros subsequently announced that Depp would no longer appear in the film and his part as the character Gellert Grindelwald would be recast.

Yesterday, however, it was reported that the film studio still faces having to shell out for the star’s full salary – despite Depp only shooting one scene since production began in September.

The actor’s contract stipulated he would be fully compensated whether or not the film was made and if it was recast, according to The Hollywood Reporter.

The contract was not thought to contain a clause dictating his behaviour, and Depp was reportedly asked to resign rather than sacked.

It was claimed studio bosses had been waiting for the outcome of the legal battle before making a decision about Depp’s future involvement in the series.

Warner Bros said in a statement at the time: “Johnny Depp will depart the Fantastic Beasts franchise. We thank Johnny for his work on the films to date.

“Fantastic Beasts 3 is currently in production, and the role of Gellert Grindelwald will be recast. The film will debut in theatres worldwide in the summer of 2022.”

De pp announced his departure on Instagram, writing: “My resolve remains strong and I intend to prove that the allegations against me are false. My life and career will not be defined by this moment in time.”

Warner Bros was contacted for comment.