Rumored replacement of Johnny Depp by Ayo Edebiri in Pirates 6 sparks fan backlash

Recent social media chatter suggests that actress and comedian Ayo Edebiri could replace Johnny Depp as the lead in Pirates of the Caribbean 6. Allegedly, Disney aims to produce a female-led installment, as reported by CBR. Even insider Daniel Richtman has reportedly confirmed that the next Pirates sequel will feature a female protagonist, according to the news outlet. Ayo Edebiri's name has been floated for the role.

Rumor Sparks Outrage

Reports suggest that the Emmy Award winner may take on the role of real-life Irish pirate Anne Bonny. However, in light of these rumors, Disney is now grappling with significant backlash online over its casting decisions. Under the hashtag #NoJohnnyNoPirates, numerous fans are expressing their firm stance that a new Pirates movie lacking Jack Sparrow is simply not acceptable to a large portion of the franchise's followers.

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Johnny Depp is the heart of the Pirates of the Caribbean movie franchise, and only he can bring the franchise to life! 💓🏴‍☠️🦜#NoJohnnyNoPirates pic.twitter.com/ZAtArwdwzV

— 💝🌹Stephanie Brown (hungry89)💝🌹 (@Stephan76215148) February 8, 2024

So here's what I'm thinking: If they do go ahead and make a Pirates movie without Johnny Depp as Jack Sparrow, not only do we all collectively not go see it in theatres, but also on opening day, we all stream Curse of the Black Pearl so we can tell them exactly what we wanted to…

— Danika ♡ (@Pigs_FlyHere) September 4, 2023

Btw Johnny Depp uses the character of Jack Sparrow to go into children's hospitals and bring joy to terminally ill kids for free sometimes without cameras. For a company that prides itself on being for kids it sure is sick for them to take this away from them. #NoJohnnyNoPirates pic.twitter.com/yE1onWMRQj

— Izze 🦁🐻 (@Izze1122) February 9, 2024

"The first film's more than just a fond memory for people, it's kind of beloved. And it's largely to do with Johnny's performance...that will survive down the years...It has everything...& it's iconic...He really has pulled it off & it will survive"
~Bill Nighy#NoJohnnyNoPirates pic.twitter.com/s8Jc09Q5PO

— Savvy? 🏴‍☠️ (@Savvy_CapJackie) February 8, 2024

I’m so sorry but it’s a no from me. No one can do it like Johnny! Let’s spread this hashtag around and let everyone know. #NoJohnnyNoPirates 🏴‍☠️🙌🏻 pic.twitter.com/HScYSWKiBa

— Shami (@shamiiadam) February 8, 2024

Delays and Drama

The sixth installment of the Pirates of the Caribbean franchise was initially announced back in 2011. However, its production has faced numerous delays, particularly after Johnny Depp's departure as the male lead in 2020 amidst his legal disputes with former wife Amber Heard in recent years

Disney's attempt to produce the sequel in 2018, with the assistance of Deadpool writers Rhett Reese and Paul Wernick, failed. Additionally, in 2020, discussions emerged about Margot Robbie leading a Pirates spin-off scripted by Christina Hodson, according to Variety. However, these plans ultimately fell through.

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In 2022, Pirates of the Caribbean producer Jerry Bruckheimer confirmed the development of two Pirates scripts, one involving Margot Robbie and another without her. However, Robbie expressed uncertainty about the project's future to Vanity Fair. The forthcoming Pirates sequels will focus on young pirates embarking on a quest for hidden treasure, raising doubts about the return of the original cast.