What Does Johnny Depp Think About His Fatherhood?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Johnny Depp reflects on empty-nest syndrome.
- He cherishes the memories of being called 'Papa'.
- Home for Depp is the south of France.
- He advises against pursuing fame for his children.
- Depp remains uncomfortable with the spotlight.
Los Angeles, June 23 (NationPress) Hollywood icon Johnny Depp has been contemplating his journey as a father. The acclaimed actor shares that he is experiencing empty-nest syndrome.
At 62, Depp, who has children Lily-Rose, 25, and Jack, 22, with ex-partner Vanessa Paradis, reflects on the nostalgia of when they used to call him 'Papa'. He expresses his astonishment at how swiftly they have matured, according to reports from Female First UK.
In an interview with The Sunday Times, he remarked, “Years get away from us, don’t they?... I’m feeling the empty-nest syndrome.”
When queried about missing the presence of his children, he responded, “Oh man, my kids growing up in the south of France in their youth? I was Papa. I cannot express how much I cherished being Papa. Then, all of a sudden, Papa was out the window. I became Dad. But Papa was incredible, and I’m reaching an age where Papa might make a comeback. Someone’s going to have to call me Papa.”
As reported by Female First UK, the ‘Pirates of the Caribbean’ star currently resides in London, yet admits that the only place he has ever truly felt at home was France.
He stated, “Well, I don’t spend much time in the US. So, there's the place in the Bahamas or here. But home. Truly, the first time I felt I had a home was the place in the south of France where Vanessa and I raised the kids. That’s the only place that ever felt like home.”
Although his daughter Lily-Rose is making her mark as a talented actress, Johnny never wished for her to follow his career path.
When asked about the advice he offers her, he stated, “Sometimes kids tell me, ‘I want to be an actor, what’s your advice?’ And I say, ‘Don’t be!’ I know what lies ahead for them. I was thrust onto that path, and the best advice I can offer is, ‘Don’t let anyone mold you into something you are not’. They may want you to be a poster child, and it’s enticing, with plenty of money. If that’s the path you desire? Go for it. But don’t allow anyone else to choose for you.”
Depp has always felt uneasy about fame, often avoiding outings with friends to prevent drawing unnecessary attention. He remarked, “Even today, I rarely go out. If friends invite me for Mexican food, I say, ‘Dude, that’s kind of you, but I’ll ruin your night’. My presence attracts attention, and, goodness, I’ve dealt with almost 40 years of fame, yet I’m still not accustomed to it. And I’m grateful for that.”