Johnny Depp expressed his gratitude for being offered the role of French King Louis XV during the U.K. premiere of his latest film, 'Jeanne du Barry.' Accompanied by co-star and director Maïwenn at the Curzon theater in Mayfair, Depp shared his feelings of being 'strangely, oddly, perversely lucky' to play the historical figure.
Reflecting on his initial reaction to the role, Depp humorously recounted his disbelief at the opportunity, given his humble origins in Kentucky. Despite his attempts to dissuade Maïwenn from casting him, she persisted, showcasing great courage in her decision.
Maïwenn, in her own remarks, revealed her long-standing fascination with the character of Jeanne du Barry, citing her as a feminist trailblazer. The director's passion for the project dated back to 2016, underscoring her commitment to bringing the story to life on screen.
'Jeanne du Barry' marked one of Depp's first projects following a highly publicized legal battle with his ex-wife, Amber Heard. The film premiered at the Cannes Film Festival, where both Depp and Maïwenn received a standing ovation lasting seven minutes, a testament to the audience's appreciation of their work.
The reception at the London premiere mirrored the enthusiasm seen at Cannes, with attendees, including Depp's 'Pirates of the Caribbean' co-star Mackenzie Crook, applauding the actor as he took the stage. The film's exploration of historical themes and characters resonated with audiences, further solidifying Depp's reputation as a versatile and captivating performer.
