The Depp-Heard saga was a tabloid tempest, leaving both parties battered and bruised. Public perception of Johnny took a hit, and the once-ubiquitous actor seemed to disappear from the silver screen. But here's the thing about Johnny Depp: the man's got the resilience of a cockroach dipped in glitter. So, let's see how the actor's life changed after the scandalous divorce.

@Johnny Depp Signs $20 Million-Plus Dior Deal, Marking the Biggest Men’s Fragrance Pact Ever/variety.com

Seeking solace in music

At first, Depp retreated from the spotlight and poured his heart and soul into the music, the bluesy riffs echoing the complexities of his life. In the wake of the trial, Depp and Beck embarked on a whirlwind European tour, electrifying audiences across the continent. The tour then set its sights on the U.S., with concerts in Chicago, Boston, Las Vegas, and the city of Angels itself, Los Angeles. Each concert became a therapy session, a space where Depp could express himself unfiltered. The raw emotion on stage was palpable, and audiences responded with thunderous applause.

@Johnny Depp's Vampires Rocking Out/tmz.com

Return to the big screen

Now, don't get us wrong, Johnny Depp never fully abandoned acting. He also managed to play King Louis XV in the historical drama Jeanne du Barry. It was a cautious step back into the mainstream, a chance to prove his acting chops hadn't gone rusty.  A wave of international affection washed over Johnny Depp at the Cannes Film Festival premiere. Fans, eager to see his return to the screen after the Amber Heard trial, showered him with praise before the big event. 

@At Cannes Film Festival, Johnny Depp says 'I have no further need for Hollywood'/ctvnews.ca

Actor’s evolution: prioritizing health, rest, and work

Depp has noticeably changed his approach to red-carpet events. At the last Cannes Film Festival, Mr. Depp reportedly departed earlier than in years past. Sources indicate a focus on prioritizing rest and ensuring his well-being, allowing him to fully engage in the upcoming media obligations. Recent reports from DailyMail have unveiled Johnny Depp's dramatic makeover as he approaches his 61st birthday. The transformation includes significant weight loss, a new haircut, and a commitment to 'clean living,' marking a complete reinvention of his image.

@redseafilm/instagram.com

Record-breaking deal with Dior

In a move that would make Captain Jack Sparrow proud, in last August Depp re-signed with Dior as the face of their iconic Sauvage fragrance. This isn't just any partnership – it's a record-breaking one! According to Variety, Depp's three-year deal is worth a whopping $20 million, making it the most lucrative men's fragrance contract ever. Looks like Depp's proving his star power is alive and well, surpassing Robert Pattinson's previous record of $12 million for Dior Homme back in 2012. 

@Through Weeks of Depp v. Heard, Dior Stood By/nytimes.com

“Bromance” with Saudi Prince

Johnny Depp has forged a striking and potentially risky friendship with Saudi Arabia's Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, characterized as a "bromance like no other." Prince extended his hospitality to Depp during the actor's nearly two-month stay in the Saudi Kingdom last year, accommodating him in opulent royal palaces and whisking him around in helicopters, yachts, and a private plane, as reported by Vanity Fair. Their bond reportedly began in July 2022 while Depp was filming Jeanne du Barry, a movie funded by Saudi backers. It appears that Depp is fully embracing MBS's vision for a cultural transformation in Saudi Arabia.@Johnny Depp 'Bromance' With Saudi Prince MBS Reportedly Fuels New Films/tmz.com

Johnny Depp might buy a $4m Italian castle

Johnny Depp has his eye on a stunning piece of Italian history! The actor reportedly toured a medieval castle in Montalto Dora, a small town in Italy, with the intention of adding it to his collection of properties. The $4 million castle offers breathtaking views from its hilltop location and boasts a luxurious interior with 11 bedrooms, 13 bathrooms, and even a 15th-century chapel. While some locals may not be thrilled about the prospect of a celebrity neighbor, reports claim Johnny Depp would be a respectful addition to the community.

@Wild history of Johnny Depp’s castle, which keeps luring nosy tourists/nypost.com

Return to directing

Johnny Depp steps back behind the camera for the independent film Modi, which signifies Depp's return to directing after a nearly 25-year hiatus. This highly anticipated project boasts a star-studded cast, featuring Academy Award nominee Al Pacino alongside European talents Riccardo Scamarcio and Sally Phillips. Depp’s last directorial credit was 1997's The Brave, in which he co-starred with the legendary Marlon Brando. Interestingly, Johny credits Al Pacino with encouraging him to return to directing.

@Johnny Depp Shares Photos with Al Pacino from Set of Their New Movie Modi: 'Incredibly Fulfilling'/people.com