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JK Rowling has defended Johnny Depp's casting in the Fantastic Beast films
JK ROWLING HAS responded to fan criticism of the casting of Johnny Depp in the Fantastic Beasts films.
Depp (far right) as Grindelwald Warner Bros Warner Bros
The franchise is a prequel to the original Harry Potter series, and stars Eddie Redmayne as the ‘magizoologist’ Newt Scamander.
At the end of the first film, it was revealed that Colin Farrell’s villain was in fact the dark wizard Grindelwald in disguise – and his real identity is played by Depp.
The twist was met with some amount of backlash, considering only months beforehand the actor was accused of verbal and physical abuse by his then-wife, Amber Heard.
Dave Longendyke / PA Wire Dave Longendyke / PA Wire / PA Wire
He denied all accusations and the couple settled their divorce proceedings, releasing a joint statement saying there was “never an intent of physical or emotional harm”.
Depp’s part was presumably filmed before this was made public, but some fans called for Grindelwald to be recast in the light of Heard’s claims.
Speaking to Entertainment Weekly, Fantastic Beasts director David Yates said it was a “dead issue” and that Heard was just “one person who took a pop” at Depp.
Yates’ statement was labelled a ‘truly gross’ dismissal of the alleged abuse against Heard, and more people began calling for Rowling to break her silence on the matter.
Ian West / PA Wire Ian West / PA Wire / PA Wire
In a message posted to her website today, the author echoed Yates’ words. She said she was at first “deeply concerned” by the reports about Depp, but is now “genuinely happy” to have him on board.
The reaction to Rowling’s statement have been one of disappointment, with many fans declaring that they will not be supporting future Fantastic Beasts films featuring Depp.
The next film in the series, The Crimes of Grindelwald, is due for release in November of 2018.
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fantastic beasts Films Harry Potter JK Rowling the crimes of grindelwald