Johnny Depp is back on the big screen, and fans can't quite believe the transformation he's undergone for the role.
The 61-year-old actor is making a dramatic return to studio film in Day Drinker—his first major Hollywood role since being asked to step down from Fantastic Beasts: The Secrets of Dumbledore back in 2020.
Depp’s Hollywood return comes after his high-profile legal battles with ex-partner Amber Heard, which culminated in the Depp v. Heard trial that made global headlines.
His last studio appearance was cut short when Warner Bros. asked him to resign from Fantastic Beasts following his libel loss to a British tabloid that labeled him a “wife beater.” That headline-grabbing case set him back in the industry.
While Depp previously starred in the historical drama Jeanne du Barry, the project was a French-language film directed by Maïwenn, with a predominantly French cast and filmed at Versailles.
Though notable, it didn’t mark his return to the Hollywood system. That moment has now arrived—with a yacht, a mysterious guest, and some serious “silver fox” vibes.
Day Drinker dives into the world of crime and luxury, following the story of a bartender working aboard a private yacht who crosses paths with both a mysterious onboard guest and a criminal figure.
Depp steps into the role of that enigmatic guest, and the first-look image has already sparked a flurry of reactions.
In the image, Depp is dressed in a navy suit paired with a light blue shirt. His long, grey-streaked hair is tied back, revealing bright blue eyes and a neatly groomed grey beard.
Clutched in his hand is a drink—naturally.
He’s also seen wearing a gold ring on his right-hand pinky, adding a dash of mystery to the look.
Fans didn’t waste a second reacting to Depp’s new look.
One stunned Instagram user confessed: “Did not realise that was Johnny Depp till I read the caption!”
Another declared: “SILVER FOX status ACTIVATEd!!!!”
A third added: "Damn! He looks good with grey hair."
While a fourth person said: "I swear he’s so versatile, I couldn’t even tell it was him. Looking exquisite! Can’t wait to watch."
The upcoming film boasts an impressive lineup. Starring alongside Depp are Outer Banks star Madelyn Cline, Penélope Cruz (Ferrari), Manu Ríos and Arón Piper (Elite), Juan Diego Botto (Good Behavior), and Anika Boyle (Made in Caravan).
Day Drinker is directed by Marc Webb, best known for The Amazing Spider-Man and Snow White, with a script penned by Zach Dean.
The film is being produced by Thunder Road’s Basil Iwanyk and Erica Lee, along with Adam Kolbrenner and Zach Dean.
Production is already underway in Spain, and the film is currently slated for release in 2026.