Disney Could Entirely Replace ‘Pirates’ Cast, Bring All New Look to Franchise

Rumors of another new addition to the Pirates of the Caribbean cast have us speculating whether Disney’s trying to give the franchise a breath of fresh air.

The Pirates of the Caribbean franchise has made its presence felt among the Disney fandom for years now. The movies—inspired by the Disney Park ride of the same name—has become one of the most popular film franchises in the world with its incredibly successful returns at the box office, and devoted fan following.

The Pirates of the Caribbean franchise has significantly contributed to its success through the casting decisions made over the years. One such notable figure is Johnny Depp, whose portrayal of the iconic character Captain Jack Sparrow has become synonymous with the series.

Gibbs and Elizabeth Swann (Kiera Knightley) in Pirates of the Caribbean / Credit: Disney

However, in recent times, Depp’s involvement in the franchise has been marred by controversy following his high-profile divorce from actress Amber Heard.

This tumultuous personal situation led to Disney making the decision to part ways with Depp, despite persistent rumors circulating about a potential return. The uncertainty surrounding Depp’s future involvement has left fans speculating about the direction the franchise will take in his absence and how his character’s presence will be addressed moving forward.

Many fans have denounced Pirates of the Caribbean without Johnny Depp. Depp himself has gone on record before and made clear how much of himself he gave to his role of Jack Sparrow and how intimately connected he was to the character.

Fans of Depp and the franchise simply can’t imagine the series without him. (And the honest truth is, no matter how hopeful or unhappy we are, every time an inside source says he’s either returning or not until Disney officially confirms his return, we will continue to lie in limbo.)

In the meanwhile, there are other rumors flying around of celebrities replacing Johnny Depp, including Margot Robbie and Austin Butler.

Now, per recent reports, Disney wants Hailee Steinfeld in their next Pirates of the Caribbean movie.

Disney wants Hailee Steinfeld on their next “Pirates of the Caribbean” movie, according to insiders rumors.

🗞️: @MyTimeToShineH pic.twitter.com/klbJD1nBHn

— best of hailee steinfeld (@archiveshailees) May 15, 2024

Fans were largely quite positively inclined to the news and were excited at the possibility of seeing Steinfeld make her mark on the Pirates of the Caribbean universe.

In fact, some even went so far as to call the possibility a “dream.”

There were others who made clear they would prefer to wait for Disney to officially confirm the news before celebrating or denouncing the move.

Johnny Depp as Captain Jack Sparrow in Pirates of the Caribbean / Credit: Disney

This said, it’s certainly worth considering what the reception to Steinfeld’s presence would be if news came out that she was not only in the new Pirates of the Caribbean movie but also replacing Johnny Depp.

This writer suspects there would be far fewer supporters of her role then.

Are you excited about Hailee Steinfeld’s possible addition to the Pirates of the Caribbean cast? Let Disney Dining know in the comments.