Johnny Depp, who has faced a lack of support from many A-listers in Hollywood following his legal battles with Amber Heard, found a welcoming face in Will Smith at the Red Sea Film Festival in Saudi Arabia. While both actors walked the carpet separately, a video posted by Smith on Instagram reveals a warm hug and friendly interaction between the two inside the event.
In the video captioned, “Wow! Thank You Red Sea Film Festival! You have created real Magic — An Oasis of art & creativity! What’s Next? I’m in,” Smith did not explicitly mention Depp or their interaction. However, the footage shows the two actors embracing and engaging in conversation.
This friendly exchange is notable, as it marks one of the first instances of a prominent A-lister openly associating with Johnny Depp after his legal battles. While Depp has appeared in some high-profile campaigns, he hasn’t made a major mainstream comeback in Hollywood. Smith’s acceptance of Depp back into the public eye is a departure from the prevailing trend among celebrities who have kept their distance from him post-trial.
The interaction is particularly interesting because there is no apparent history or collaboration between the two actors in terms of films or personal connections. Despite this, Smith’s open and warm embrace of Depp suggests a willingness to separate the actor from the controversies that have surrounded him.
Will Smith, who has faced his own challenges and controversies recently, has expressed a commitment to a healing journey and adjusting his outlook on life. Embracing Johnny Depp may be seen as an extension of Smith’s efforts to avoid judgment and offer support to those who have faced public scrutiny. As Depp’s reputation remains divisive, this interaction may signal a shift in perception within certain circles of the entertainment industry. The question now arises whether Amber Heard, Depp’s ex-wife, will also receive a redemption moment in the future.
