Johnny Depp's casting as Gellert Grindelwald in "Fantastic Beast and Where to Find Them" stirred a controversy in the "Harry Potter" fan community. Fans have expressed their disappointment at the actor's casting, citing that he should not take part in the franchise due to his alleged history of abuse against his former wife Amber Heard. However, the "Fantastic Beast" producer has come out to explain why Depp was chosen for the role.
Despite the backlash, producer David Heyman stood by the decision to cast Depp. He told Collider that they wanted to cast an iconic actor to portray Grindelwald in the big screen, as the character itself has a "significant place" in Wizarding history.
"We were looking for someone who was seductive and could be charming and could be original, who was iconic, who was a great actor; and that's what Johnny Depp is," Heyman said about Depp's casting. He added that Depp is irresistible and powerful. The fact, too, that he has stepped into the shoes of some memorable and unpredictable characters is part of what makes him the perfect choice for Grindelwald, who is known to be one of the most dangerous Dark Wizards of all time in "Harry Potter" lore.
J.K. Rowling herself has given her two cents on the issue, defending Depp's casting as Grindelwald. She told MTV News that it has been a "privilege" to work with the actor. "Watching him create a character is fascinating," Rowling said about Depp. "It's been quite inspiring to me as the writer. I feel he's got quite an interesting approach to creating a character. It's a privilege to work with someone like that."
Depp will play Grindelwald for the entirety of the "Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them" saga, which has been confirmed to run with five movies. Rowling revealed that "Fantastic Beast" will span a 19-year period, which will end with Grindelwald and Dumbledore's duel for the Elder Wand.
The 53-year-old actor made his debut as the character in "Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them," which is currently in theaters. The sequel will premiere in 2018.