Johnny Depp expected to take the stand again next week in Amber Heard trial

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By Carina Murphy

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Johnny Depp is expected to step back onto the witness stand next week.

According to a report by The New York Post, Depp will testify again - potentially for up to 18 hours - in his explosive defamation trial against his ex-wife Amber Heard.

Over the past few weeks, the Pirates of the Caribbean star has been embroiled in a high-profile court case in which he is suing Heard for $50 million over a 2018 Washington Post op-ed in which she claimed to be a survivor of domestic abuse.

Depp maintains that he was the real victim of their turbulent marriage and that Heard's article wrecked his reputation and his career. Heard, meanwhile, has doubled down on her claims and countersued for $100 million, citing multiple occasions during their relationship when she alleges Depp assaulted her.

There has been no shortage of shock headlines and unexpected revelations in the trial, which has seen many people glued to their screens as more and more harrowing details of the celebrity exes' ill-fated union emerge.

Both Depp and Heard have delivered emotional testimonies from the witness stand, with Heard's cross-examination wrapping up earlier this week.

However, it looks like Depp might be back on the stand in the coming days, as reports suggest he will be questioned as a rebuttal witness on Wednesday or Thursday next week.

Judge Penney Azcarate gave both legal teams a total of 61 hours and 15 minutes to present their cases in Fairfax County Court, Virginia. As of today, Heard's lawyers have 8 hours and 14 minutes left to play with, while Depp's still have 18 hours and 30 minutes.

News that the 58-year-old actor could be back on the witness stand may spell trouble for Heard's case. The Edward Scissorhands star gave a charismatic testimony last time he was called to questioning, which legal experts have warned could sway the jury.

"There is a risk that he is going to have more time being likable on the stand when it’s actually Amber Heard’s time to present her case," civil attorney Katherine Lizardo told The New York Post.

Closing arguments are scheduled for next Friday.

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