Johnny Depp is set to return to a major Hollywood studio production after an eight-year absence. On Thursday, Paramount Pictures unveiled its upcoming feature film, "Ebenezer: A Christmas Carol", with Depp cast as the iconic Ebenezer Scrooge.

The project marks his first leading role in a major studio film since 2018, when allegations of domestic abuse made by his former wife, Amber Heard, derailed his Hollywood career.

Paramount also unveiled the film's title poster and confirmed that it will be released in cinemas on November 13.

"The name you know. The story you don't. Johnny Depp is Ebenezer Scrooge in #EbenezerMovie – only in theatres November 13," the studio wrote alongside the announcement.

Directed by acclaimed horror filmmaker Ti West, best known for "X", "Pearl", and "MaXXXine", the film reimagines Charles Dickens' 1843 novella "A Christmas Carol" as a dark fantasy infused with horror elements. The adaptation promises a darker, more supernatural take on the classic festive tale.

Depp leads the ensemble cast as Ebenezer Scrooge, alongside Ian McKellen as Jacob Marley, Andrea Riseborough as the Ghost of Christmas Past, Tramell Tillman as the Ghost of Christmas Present, Daisy Ridley as the Ghost of Christmas Yet to Come, and Rupert Grint as Bob Cratchit.

Hours after the announcement, Depp made his first public appearance promoting the film at San Diego Comic-Con, where he surprised fans by appearing in character as Scrooge. Fully embracing the role, he playfully mocked attendees, asking, "Do you have jobs? It seems as though you have so much spare time. Why are you here?"

Wearing a long overcoat and top hat, the actor emerged from a mock snow-covered storefront in downtown San Diego bearing a "Scrooge and Marley" sign. Fans quickly gathered around, recording the moment on their phones while calling out, "Merry Christmas!"

Source: The Daily Star

--Agencies