'Pirates of the Caribbean' Producer Shifts Focus From Johnny Depp to Will Smith

Posted by: Michael Arnold August 3, 2023

The unparalleled success of the highly acclaimed Pirates of the Caribbean film franchise is undoubtedly owed to the exceptional portrayal of the iconic character Captain Jack Sparrow by the esteemed actor Johnny Depp. While there were undoubtedly other talented actors who played significant roles in the series, it is crucial to acknowledge the true visionary responsible for the creation of this beloved and timeless masterpiece.

The release of Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl in 2003 sparked a tidal wave of excitement. The charismatic Jack Sparrow captivated audiences and swiftly became a beloved icon of the franchise. The remarkable performances of Orlando Bloom, Geoffrey Rush, and Keira Knightley added to the film’s undeniable allure. What a thrilling experience it was! So thrilling, that it culminated in a total of five films featuring other notable names like Bill Nighy, Ian McShane, and Penelope Cruz and has grossed a whopping $4.52 billion!

Credit: Instagram/@HollywoodVampires

Although Johnny Depp’s portrayal of the eccentric pirate is often lauded for the franchise’s success, producer Jerry Bruckheimer worked hard behind the scenes to bring Pirates of the Caribbean to life. With a wealth of experience in producing big-budget Hollywood blockbusters, including Top Gun (1986), Armageddon (1998), and Black Hawk Down (2001), Bruckheimer’s involvement is crucial to the franchise’s achievements. I am truly grateful for his dedication and exceptional work, which has made the Pirates of the Caribbean franchise an absolute masterpiece.

There has been much discussion about whether Johnny Depp will reprise his role as Captain Jack Sparrow in a potential sixth Pirates of the Caribbean film. While Depp has expressed his open willingness to return to Disney for the role, recent comments from producer Jerry Bruckheimer suggest that it may not happen. Depp’s highly publicized personal issues, including his court battle with ex-wife Amber Heard and health-related events with his band the Hollywood Vampires, make it seem unlikely that he will return to the iconic role. Despite rumors, there has been no official announcement about the future of the franchise.

Credit: Disney/ Canva

It’s truly fascinating to delve into the collaborative efforts of Bruckheimer and Depp, the masterminds behind the iconic Pirates of the Caribbean franchise. Their work together is most responsible for the global phenomenon. However, their creative partnership extends beyond the swashbuckling adventures on the high seas, including work on Disney’s Lone Ranger in 2013. As the fate of the next Pirates installment remains uncertain in light of recent negative publicity surrounding Johnny Depp, Bruckheimer may be forgoing days of old alongside Johnny Depp and forging ahead with a new project. As any chance of a new Jack Sparrow film wilts away with every published article showcasing Depp’s poor choices and health issues, Bruckheimer has turned to another Hollywood star who has had their own trouble lately in the media, Will Smith.

Much like Depp, Jerry Bruckheimer is no stranger to actor Will Smith, who found himself in the crosshairs of the public after slapping comedian Chris Rock on live television during the 2022 Oscars following jokes regarding Jada Pinkett Smith’s shaved head. As Bruckheimer maintains an impressive catalog of films to his credit, it isn’t surprising to discover that he was also behind the Bad Boys franchise that featured Smith alongside Martin Lawrence. In a report from Sony, the fourth installment of the film series is on its way, premiering June 14, 2024. This means that while we all wait patiently to hear if Disney will move forward with another Pirate’s film, one of its most crucial executives is shifting his focus to other projects.

Credit: The Academy

Bad Boys 4 will once again see Will Smith (Detective Mike Lowrey) and Martin Lawrence (Detective Marcus Burnett) partner up in what has become a very quotable action-packed production. For those who may not have had the pleasure of experiencing the Bad Boys film franchise, let me introduce you to the dynamic duo of law enforcement and friendship at its finest. With a perfect blend of humor and high-octane action, these films will have you on the edge of your seat as our Will Smith and Martin Lawrence hilariously navigate dangerous cases. The upcoming Bad Boys 4 film will be helmed by the talented Adil El Arbi and Bilall Fallah, with Chris Bremner bringing his writing prowess to the project. Fans shouyld get ready for another thrilling ride!

There is speculation about the possibility of a sixth Pirates of the Caribbean movie being produced, but it is uncertain. The fact that producer Jerry Bruckheimer is currently focused on a new project, Bad Boys, does not necessarily mean that a new Pirates movie will not be made, but it does indicate that resources are being directed elsewhere. We will keep you informed if there are any updates on either of these movies.