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Edinburgh Live
Edinburgh Live
World
Claire Galloway

Johnny Depp axed from JK Rowling's Fantastic Beasts film franchise

Johnny Depp has announced he is resigning from his role in the Fantastic Beasts film franchise.

The fantasy film is a prequel to the Harry Potter film series, inspired by author JK Rowling's book.

The 57-year-old actor was set to star as the Gellert Grindelwald but revealed he had been asked to resign by Warner Bros.

It comes just days after the actor lost a libel case against the Sun over claims abused his ex-wife Amber Heard, in which the paper branded the Hollywood star a "wife beater".

The actor shared a statement on Instagram, which read: "In light of recent events, i would like to make the following short statement.

"Firstly I'd like to thank everybody who has gifted me with their support and loyalty.

"I have been humbled and moved by your many messages of love and concern, particularly over the last few days.

"Secondly, I wish to let you know that i have been asked to resign by Warner Bros. from my role as Grindelwald in Fantastic Beasts and I have respected that and agreed to that request."

He also added that he found the court ruling "surreal" and plans to appeal it.

He continued: "Finally I wish to say this.

"The surreal judgement of the court in the UK will not change my fight to tell the truth and I confirm that I plan to appeal.

It comes days after the actor lost his libel case (Wikimedia Commons)

"My resolve remains strong and I intend to prove that the allegations against me are false. My life and career will not be defined by this moment in time."

Depp made an appearance as Grindelwald in 2016's Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them and 2018's Fantastic Beasts: The Crimes of Grindelwald.

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Warner Bros confirmed the role would be recast for the upcoming film, which is set to be released in summer 2022.

The film studio said in a statement: "We thank Johnny for his work on the films to date."

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