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Depp’s refusal to return comes amidst a larger Hollywood pattern of recasting and cutting actors based on allegations and studio decisions. Warner Bros., for example, recast Depp in Fantastic Beasts 3 while continuing to cast Amber Heard in Aquaman 2. Depp’s assertive stance highlights his disillusionment with Hollywood’s hypocrisy and its inconsistent treatment of actors based on public opinion and studio politics.
This refusal to re-engage with Disney and Hollywood also signifies Depp's desire to focus on his personal artistic pursuits rather than industry validation. He has publicly declared that he is interested in authentic self-expression through art and music rather than participating in a Hollywood system that he feels has wronged him.