Johnny Depp has been in a heap of trouble in the US in recent times, but the French love him.
His protracted 2022 legal battle with ex-girlfriend Amber Heard tarnished an already problematic reputation, and accusations of mutual domestic violence did a lot of damage despite his win over Heard. “Yes, Mr. Depp can claim a moral victory, but let’s not forget this was once a woman he loved that he dragged through the mud,” a Hollywood agent stated at the time Depp received a favorable verdict in the trial that was held in Fairfax, Virginia.
His reputation took a hit, but predictions were that the rough times would pass and he would work again. And they were right. Depp received an ecstatic seven-minute standing ovation on Tuesday night at the premiere of Cannes Film Festival’s opening night film “Jeanne Du Barry.”
He was moved, barely holding back tears as the crowd in the South of France erupted in prolonged applause for his performance as the King Louis XV. He seemed to be surprised to be so loved and appreciated.
Arriving in Cannes, Depp was welcomed by thousands of supportive fans, who carried signs outside the Palais and scrambled to touch their idol. Many were successful in making contact with Depp, who worked the fan line outside for five full minutes before walking the carpet.
“Jeanne du Barry” stars Maiwenn as Jeanne Vaubernier, a working class woman in 18th century France who rises through the social ranks and becomes King Louis XV’s lover. Her working-class roots and fierce ambition make her a social pariah in the king’s court. The supporting cast includes Benjamin Lavernhe, Pierre Richard, Melvil Poupaud and Pascal Greggory.
The film marks Depp’s most high profile acting role since the conclusion of his 2022 legal battle against ex-wife Amber Heard. Festival director Thierry Fremaux spoke to press ahead of opening night and addressed Depp’s presence at Cannes.
“I don’t know about the image of Johnny Depp in the U.S,” Fremaux said. “To tell you the truth, in my life, I only have one rule: It’s the freedom of thinking, and the freedom of speech and acting within a legal framework. If Johnny Depp had been banned from acting in a film, or the film was banned, we wouldn’t be here talking about it.”
Depp received thunderous applause from fans when he showed up on the red carpet outside the Palais. His fans were waiting with posters, shrines and more as they screamed when they made his way over to sign autographs. Like Fremaux, it seems like the fans don’t care about the revelations of domestic violence that came out during the trial, but they do care about Depp, the actor.
