Johnny Depp appeared to tear up at the Cannes film festival after he received a seven-minute standing ovation for this new movie.
Depp, 59, was a much-loved actor in Hollywood but has become something of a divisive figure of late following his defamation trial against his ex-wife Amber Heard.
The actor saw his career thrown into question following the highly publicized trial – especially after he was removed from the Fantastic Beasts series.
But it’s not all doom and gloom for Depp fans, as his new movie Jeanne du Barry received an incredible reception at the prestigious Cannes film festival.
Taking to the red carpet for the first time since the trial, the 59-year-old was met with adoring fans who cheered him on, and the positivity didn’t end there.
According to Variety, the movie made the audience leap to their feet, and they didn’t stop clapping for seven minutes.
Videos are circulating online of the Pirates actor seemingly tearing up at this response, as it’s clear that it had an overwhelming impact on him.
The movie is set in 18th-century France under the reign of King Louis XV, and it follows the love story between the King (played by Depp) and a working-class woman, Jeanne Vaubernier (played by Maïwenn) who works her way through the social ranks.
Speaking to the press about Depp’s appearance in Cannes, Thierry Fremaux, the festival’s boss, addressed the concerns and also supported the actor.
“I don’t know about the image of Johnny Depp in the US,” 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.”
Adding that he doesn’t know why Maïwenn opted to cast Depp in the role, Fremaux added: “As for the rest, I’m the last person to be able to discuss all this. If there’s one person in this world who didn’t find the least interest in this very publicized trial, it’s me. I don’t know what it’s about. I also care about Johnny Depp as an actor.”
Fans commented under the videos of Depp being moved to tears, as one person supported him by saying: “He deserved this after all he went through! This man is a legend, a wonderful, genius, and eclectic actor as well as a humble and elegant man.”
A second added: “Ovation for it taking 7 year for Johnny to get justice and get [his] career back. Proud of him.”
Though some weren’t pleased with Depp receiving the applause as they believe he shouldn’t have a platform following the allegations made against him by Heard.
The movie is getting mixed reviews from critics, but it could open the door to Depp getting his career back on track.
