Is Johnny Depp Set to Star in ‘Ebenezer: A Christmas Carol’?
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Synopsis
Hollywood star Johnny Depp is poised to play Ebenezer Scrooge in ‘Ebenezer: A Christmas Carol’, a fresh adaptation of Dickens' classic, directed by Ti West. The film is set for a November 2026 release. This role marks Depp's return to major studio films after a tumultuous few years. Can he redefine Scrooge for a new generation?
Key Takeaways
- Johnny Depp is likely returning to mainstream cinema as Ebenezer Scrooge.
- The film is directed by Ti West and expected to release in 2026.
- This adaptation offers Depp a chance at a career resurgence.
- Scrooge is a character with a rich cinematic history.
- Another adaptation is in development by Robert Eggers.
Los Angeles, Oct 24 (NationPress) Hollywood icon Johnny Depp is on the verge of taking the lead role in ‘Ebenezer: A Christmas Carol’, an adaptation of Charles Dickens’ beloved holiday tale, for Paramount Pictures.
Renowned horror director Ti West is helming the project, based on a script penned by Nathaniel Halpern, with Andrea Riseborough cast as the co-star, as reported by Variety.
The film is being produced by Emma Watts, with Stephen Deuters and Jason Forman serving as executive producers. If the deal is finalized, the studio aims for a release on November 13, 2026.
According to Variety, Depp will portray the iconic character of Ebenezer Scrooge, a grumpy and stingy businessman in 19th-century London, who encounters the ghosts of Christmas past, present, and future in a quest to redeem himself from a life of torment.
This character has long been a staple of holiday films, featuring in notable adaptations such as the classic 1951 version with Alastair Sim, 1988’s Scrooged with Bill Murray, 1992’s A Muppet Christmas Carol with Michael Caine, and 2009’s A Christmas Carol starring Jim Carrey.
Meanwhile, Robert Eggers, director of Nosferatu, is also working on his interpretation of the tale at Warner Bros., with Willem Dafoe in consideration for the role of Scrooge. This project would mark Depp's first major studio role since 2018’s Fantastic Beasts: The Crimes of Grindelwald. He was dismissed from that franchise after losing a libel case against The Sun, which labeled him a “wife beater” in 2018 due to allegations from his ex-wife Amber Heard.
In a subsequent U.S. trial in 2022, both Depp and Heard were found to have defamed each other. Since then, Depp has appeared in several independent films and recently completed filming the thriller Day Drinker for Lionsgate, alongside Penelope Cruz, which is also anticipated to debut in 2026.
Point of View
I find Johnny Depp's return to a major studio project both intriguing and significant. The role of Ebenezer Scrooge is iconic, and Depp's portrayal could potentially reinvigorate interest in this classic tale, especially in light of his recent tumultuous years. This adaptation is not just a film; it's an opportunity for redemption and reinvention.
NationPress
24/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is directing ‘Ebenezer: A Christmas Carol’?
The film is directed by Ti West, known for his work in the horror genre.
When is the release date for the film?
The studio is aiming for a release on November 13, 2026.
What role is Johnny Depp playing?
Johnny Depp is set to play the iconic role of Ebenezer Scrooge.
What is the significance of this role for Johnny Depp?
This marks Johnny Depp's first major studio role since 2018 and is seen as a potential comeback.
Is there another adaptation of A Christmas Carol in the works?
Yes, Robert Eggers is developing his own version with Willem Dafoe in consideration for the role of Scrooge.
