Johnny Depp struggled to hold back his tears as he received a seven minute-long standing ovation for his new film at yesterday's (May 16) Cannes Film Festival. The Hollywood actor was overcome with emotion as festival-goers gave their applause at the premiere of his comeback film Jeanne du Barry.
In the period drama flick, directed by French actress, Maïwenn, Depp plays the role of King Louis XV. His portrayal marks the star's official return to the Hollywood film industry following a three-year break and 2022's explosive defamation case against him by his ex wife Amber Heard.
The court case gained worldwide publicity as the details of the former couple's two-year marriage were aired for all to see. After six gruelling weeks, Amber Heard lost her defamation case and the jury awarded $15m (£11.9m) to Depp and $2m (£1.6m) to Heard - compared to the $100m requested by her countersuit.
Tuesday's 76th annual film festival also saw Johnny's first red carpet appearance since his court case victory. As he arrived, the 59-year-old was greeted by cheers and claps by fans, with many heard chanting his name, as reported by the Mirror.
On Twitter, fans rushed to express heir excitement at the star's Hollywood comeback. TheReneeJames wrote: "Shine Johnny! You deserve every moment of that recognition and appreciation."
RaminSetoodeh, who shared a video of the moment, posted: "Johnny Depp is met with a rapturous standing ovation as he enters the Palais for the premiere of ‘Jeanne du Barry.’ #Cannes2023."
Jxnsmanager added: "The audience at cannes screaming johnny depp's name when he arrived is music to my ears." DonJuan63_JDepp chimed: "He came just as I thought he would! Ponytail and black suit! He looks so handsome!"
Deppbrazilf gushed: "The comeback of our beloved king! All the love and success in the world to him and Jeanne du Barry!" Groovydepp typed: "Johnny Depp shining on the red carpet."
On Redseafilm's Instagram Story, there is a clip of Johnny on stage with his co-stars and director as his eyes fill with tears. He smiles, nods and waves as applause rings throughout the theatre.
Jeanne du Barry portrays King Louis XV's love story as he falls in love with a prostitute, much to the horror of much of his family and court. Louis XV was married to Queen of France Marie Leczinska but had a number of affairs. Jeanne was his final lover before he died.
