Could Captain Jack Sparrow finally be preparing to sail back onto the big screen? After years of rumors, conflicting reports, and uncertainty surrounding the future of the Pirates of the Caribbean franchise, producer Jerry Bruckheimer delivered the most encouraging update yet during D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event.
While attending the event in Anaheim, Bruckheimer confirmed that conversations are underway with Johnny Depp about potentially returning to the franchise. He also revealed that work continues on the screenplay for a sixth Pirates of the Caribbean movie.
“We’re talking with Johnny, we’re working on a screenplay, and hopefully we can get this done,” Bruckheimer said when asked about the long-awaited project. Deadline’s interview was also shared during D23.
That brief statement may not constitute an official casting announcement, but it represents a major step forward for fans hoping to see Depp reprise his most famous role.
Is Johnny Depp Officially Returning as Captain Jack Sparrow?
Not yet.
Bruckheimer confirmed that discussions are taking place, but neither Disney nor Depp has officially announced that an agreement has been reached. The movie also does not currently have a publicly announced production date or theatrical release date.
The most important development is that Depp is now directly involved in conversations about the new film. This moves the possibility of his return beyond Bruckheimer simply expressing a desire to work with him again.
In August 2025, Bruckheimer said Depp might return if he approved of how Captain Jack Sparrow was written.
“If he likes the way the part’s written, I think he would do it,” Bruckheimer said at the time. “It’s all about what’s on the page, as we all know.” Entertainment Weekly reported that Bruckheimer and Depp had already discussed the possibility.
One year later, Bruckheimer’s D23 comments indicate those conversations have continued as the screenplay moves through development.
What Do We Know About Pirates of the Caribbean 6?
Bruckheimer confirmed that a screenplay remains in development, but he did not reveal specific story details, additional cast members, a director, or when filming could begin.
The producer has previously described the next movie as a reboot that could introduce new characters while still leaving room for familiar faces. He has also repeatedly emphasized that the project will not move forward until the creative team has a screenplay everyone believes in.
According to Bruckheimer’s earlier comments, the challenge has been finding the right story and determining how Captain Jack Sparrow could fit into the next era of the franchise.
The latest D23 update suggests the project is still being shaped. However, the fact that the filmmakers are writing a screenplay while simultaneously communicating with Depp could mean Captain Jack’s potential involvement is being considered as part of that process.
The five films have earned more than $4.5 billion worldwide, making Pirates of the Caribbean one of Disney’s most successful live-action franchises. The most recent installment, Dead Men Tell No Tales, arrived in theaters in 2017. The Guardian reported that the fifth movie earned nearly $800 million worldwide.
Despite the franchise’s financial success, Depp’s future as Jack Sparrow became uncertain after his professional relationship with Disney deteriorated. During his 2022 defamation trial involving ex-wife Amber Heard, Depp testified that he felt betrayed by the company and indicated he would not return to the role.
Bruckheimer, however, has remained one of Depp’s most vocal supporters. He has repeatedly credited the actor with creating the distinctive personality, mannerisms, and appearance that transformed Captain Jack Sparrow into a pop-culture icon.
What Bruckheimer’s D23 Comments Really Mean
Mandatory Credit Photo by Peter MountainWalt DisneyKobalShutterstock 8824122p
Johnny Depp
Pirates Of The Caribbean Dead Men Tell No Tales Film 2017
Bruckheimer’s remarks should be viewed as a promising development—not confirmation that Johnny Depp has signed a contract.
Until Disney or Depp announces a finalized agreement, Captain Jack Sparrow’s return remains possible but not guaranteed.
Still, this is undoubtedly one of the strongest indications fans have received that Johnny Depp could once again take command of the Black Pearl. Bruckheimer’s confirmation that talks are active and that a screenplay is being developed suggests the door to Captain Jack Sparrow’s return is no longer closed.
For now, the horizon remains uncertain. But for the first time in years, it appears there may be a familiar pirate ship sailing toward it.
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