Johnny Depp’s striking new hairstyle, unveiled at the London premiere of “Jeanne du Barry,” has ignited a whirlwind of reactions on social media, marking a dramatic departure from his iconic look. Some noted his healthier appearance compared to his past looks.
Johnny Depp attends the U.K. Premiere of “Jeanne Du Barry” at The Curzon Mayfair on April 15, 2024, in London, England. | Source: Getty Images
At the London premiere of “Jeanne du Barry,” Johnny Depp dazzled netizens with a dramatic new look reminiscent of his early career. He debuted a short haircut, a departure from his usual long, tousled locks.
Johnny Depp arrives for the U.K. premiere of “Jeanne Du Barry,” at Curzon Mayfair, London. | Source: Getty Images
Depp’s new look sparked a flurry of reactions on social media as netizens quickly voiced their opinions. A fan noted, “He has been looking unhealthy for awhile. I’m glad he’s past that now.” Another reacted, “He looks so much better with short hair. It makes him much younger.”
Johnny Depp attends the “Jeanne du Barry” U.K. Premiere at The Curzon Mayfair on April 15, 2024, in London, England. | Source: Getty Images
The sentiments were further reinforced by others who felt the change was significantly positive. A fan remarked “He looks great, 10 years younger,” while another echoed, “Looking sharp.” One user commented, “About time he cleaned up his act.”
Johnny Depp stands before a crowd at the “Jeanne du Barry” premiere in London, England. | Source: Facebook/extra
The film marks one of Depp’s major film comebacks since his 2022 defamation trial with ex-wife Amber Heard. His new hairstyle has sparked fan discussions, some linking it to the aftermath of their publicized legal battle.
Amber Heard and Johnny Depp watch as the jury leaves the courtroom at the end of the day at the Fairfax County Circuit Courthouse on May 16, 2022, in Fairfax, Virginia. | Source: Getty Images
A critic commented, “He looks like he hasn’t washed his hair since the trial,” while one unconvinced netizen said, “He’s not aged well but I guess his lifestyle shows that. He was so good-looking, shame.”
A screenshot Johnny Depp attending the “Jeanne du Barry” premiere in London, England. | Source: Facebook/extra
Meanwhile, another offered a mix of critique and support, stating, “Hey, he’s got back to his base normal. After living that mess of a woman. Give him a break.” Meanwhile, many still expressed optimism about Depp’s comeback.
Johnny Depp signing autographs at the premiere of “Jean Du Barry” in London, England. | Source: YouTube/extratv
A fan commended the actor, “Good for him, happy for him.” Another praised him, “Looking very dapper, I hope this film does really well and it looks very interesting so looking forward to going to see it soon.”
The actor’s recent transformation was for his role as King Louis XV in “Jeanne du Barry,” directed by Maïwenn, who also stars alongside Depp. Despite his initial reluctance to star in the film, he felt fortunate to receive the opportunity to play the French royal.
Johnny Depp as King Louis XV in the film “Jeanne Du Barry.” | Source: YouTube/PalaceFilms
Depp said, “I feel very lucky to have been [offered the role] – strangely, oddly, perversely lucky.” While he revives a French monarch on screen, he has set his sights off-screen on a historic $4 million castle in Turin, Italy, which has stirred some local controversy.
Renzo Galletto, the mayor of Montaldo Dora, expressed reservations about the Hollywood star owning this property. “A celebrity buying a historic monument like the Montalto Dora castle would bring a lot of attention to the area, but we’re not sure if it would be the right ‘economic synergy’ for the community,” he said.
Galletto highlighted that the castle is a “Site of Community Interest,” which imposes specific regulations. “Building [anything new inside or out] would require a lot of approvals and permissions,” he added. The castle is protected by the Italian Cultural Heritage
The Montalto Dora Castle in Turin, Italy. | Source: Getty Images
As Depp’s personal tastes evolve, from eclectic property acquisitions to diverse style changes, his adoption of Comanche-inspired looks and move to the English countryside sparks discussions among netizens.
Johnny Depp and Micki Free posing for a picture posted on November 5, 2022 | Source: Instagram/official_micki_free
A 2022 photograph of Depp has left the internet bewildered. The image in question—shared by guitarist and artist Micki Free—showcases a version of the actor that many fans argue was a far cry from the heartthrob status he once held.
Johnny Depp and Micki Free posing for a picture posted on November 5, 2022 | Source: Instagram/official_micki_free
The post, shared on Free’s Instagram, displays candid shots of Depp and Free at The Palms in Las Vegas. Depp dons a black tee, jeans, numerous accessories, and a brimmed hat, with loosely styled hair and perhaps a hint of mascara.
Johnny Depp and Micki Free posing for a picture posted on November 5, 2022 | Source: Instagram/official_micki_free
Free’s attire mirrored this flamboyance with a vibrant ensemble of a red vest, floral red jacket, and a matching brimmed hat. Hinting at the profound ties the duo shares, Free’s caption read, “Me and cousin Johnny at The Palms in Las Vegas last night!!! HAVE MERCY!”
Johnny Depp and Micki Free posing for a picture posted on November 5, 2022 | Source: Instagram/official_micki_free
The reaction to Depp’s appearance in the Instagram post varied widely, with many expressing disbelief. “Doesn’t even look like the same person! Wow!” exclaimed one user, while another commented, “Can’t be! 😱,” and someone else conveyed the level of shock, citing, “Oh my goodness!”
An unconvinced social media user stated, “That doesn’t even look close to Johnny. Is that the original one?????” Another expressed, “No way!!” and someone else pondered, “Is it really [him]? Omg. That’s sad.”
These sentiments reflect a broader discussion on aging, celebrity culture, and the expectations placed upon public figures to remain unchanged despite the passage of time.
Johnny Depp arriving for the 60th Venice Film Festival in Venice, Italy on August 28, 2003 | Source: Getty Images
One person even took things a step further and posted an old picture of Depp looking suave with short hair and shades and wrote, “Wow…he used to be good-looking and masculine.”
Johnny Depp at the 62nd Annual Golden Globe Awards in Beverly Hills, California on January 16, 2005 | Source: Getty Images
Although many struggled to recognize Depp in the shared images, it was indeed him. The post highlighted his physical transformation and underscored his connection to the Comanche tribe through familial ties to LaDonna Harris, a direct relative of war chief Quanah Parker.
Johnny Depp spotted on October 4, 1989. | Source: Getty Images
In a TikTok video posted online the same year the Instagram post was shared, Free offered a deeper insight into this connection, explicitly explaining, “When Johnny Depp did ‘The Lone Ranger’ in 2012 I think it was, LaDonna adopted Johnny in the Comanche nation […] So that made Johnny my cousin Comanche way because of our sisters.”
Free’s narration on their shared Comanche heritage not only brings to light their familial bond but also Depp’s sincere engagement with the Native American community, This dates back to his induction into the Comanche nation—based in Lawton, Okla—as an honorary member during his work on “The Lone Ranger.”
Johnny Depp at the world premiere of “The Lone Ranger” in Anaheim, California on June 22, 2013 | Source: Getty Images
Comanche Nation tribal member Harris, now regarding Depp as her son, played a pivotal role in his adoption, highlighting the inclusivity of Comanche traditions. Their acknowledgment solidified his Native American connection, reflecting his commitment to honoring this aspect of his identity.
Johnny Depp at the UK premiere of “The Lone Ranger” in London, England on July 21, 2013 | Source: Getty Images
Before becoming a member of the Comanche tribe, Depp was a two-time recipient of People’s Sexiest Man Alive title. Naturally, his evolution from holding this title to his current, more subdued persona is a stark reminder of the transient nature of fame and beauty standards.
Johnny Depp at the 76th Annual Academy Awards in Hollywood, California on February 29, 2004 | Source: Getty Images
The contrast between his sex symbol status in 2003 (when “Pirates of the Caribbean” came out) and 2009 (25 years after making his movie debut) and the current discourse surrounding his appearance speaks volumes about societal expectations and the inevitability of change.
Johnny Depp at the world premiere of “Pirates of the Caribbean: At World’s End” in Anaheim, California on May 19, 2007 | Source: Getty Images
Speaking of the inevitability of change, Depp has reportedly embraced a more serene lifestyle in the quiet English countryside, as reported in March 2023. This shift from the fast-paced Hollywood scene to a low-key existence underscores his quest for tranquility and authenticity.
Johnny Depp posing for a portrait during the Red Sea International Film Festival in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia on December 2, 2023 | Source: Getty Images
“I just love places with character. I have various houses in various places and they all mean something special to me,” Depp shared. “In truth, I’m quite a shy person,” he added, revealing the personal satisfaction he finds in Britain’s reserved culture, particularly Somerset, where he can “just be” himself.
Johnny Depp spotted in Birmingham, England on June 06, 2022 | Source: Getty Images
Depp appreciates the English countryside’s charm, noting the local community’s respectful demeanor. “British people are cool and will greet you as if you are a neighbor without going over the top,” he said. This privacy lets him enjoy solitude, away from celebrity life.
Johnny Depp arriving at the 68th San Sebastian Film Festival in San Sebastian, Spain on September 19, 2020 | Source: Getty Images
Depp’s shift from Hollywood’s pinnacle to a tranquil countryside retreat, and the buzz a single photo sparked, highlights the complexities of his public life. His dramatically changed appearance continues to trigger perplexed reactions on social media.
Johnny Depp arriving at the 68th San Sebastian Film Festival in San Sebastian, Spain on September 19, 2020 | Source: Getty Images
Since his legal feud with Heard, Depp’s shifted focus to music, minimizing screen time. Fans were surprised by a photo of the actor in Boston, showing him with a cane, wearing baggy trousers, a half-buttoned flannel shirt, and a matching coat.
Johnny Depp spotted out with a walking cane posted on July 30, 2023 | Source: Instagram/justjared
Depp also accessorized with layers of necklaces, blue sunglasses, and a navy blue hat. Some fans couldn’t believe it was him and left comments on the post. “He looks so different!” one person said. Meanwhile, another commented, “He looks rough!”
As part of their local tour, the actor-turned-musician spent a few days in Boston with his band, Hollywood Vampires. During the last week of May, the band had to reschedule some tour dates due to Depp’s sustained injury.
“Johnny has sustained a painful injury to his ankle following his recent appearances and has been advised by his doctor not to travel,” their official statement read. The Hollywood Vampires look forward to bringing their music live in Europe after their US tour.
Johnny Depp at the Red Sea International Film Festival in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia on December 1, 2023 | Source: Getty Images
Depp is already 60 years old but still pursuing his passion. The actor doesn’t mind aging and gravitates toward gratitude. In a 2013 interview, he revealed that every second of life is good, regardless of age.
Johnny Depp at the Red Sea International Film Festival in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia on December 1, 2023 | Source: Getty Images
At that time, Depp had just finished filming “The Lone Ranger” and did several dangerous stunts himself. Fortunately, he did not sustain serious injuries. He again talked about aging in 2018 and claimed he was unbothered by his looks and focused on feeling young.
Continuing the trend of attracting public attention, Depp’s daughter, Lily-Rose Depp, also captured the public’s curiosity. In December 2023, she was spotted enjoying a night out, filled with public displays of affection, with her girlfriend, Danielle Balbuena, better known as 070 Shake.