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“You Are a Warrior Mate”: Johnny Depp Pays His Respects Following the Death of Terminally Ill ‘Pirates of the Caribbean’ Fan

Johnny Depp has been a constant in headlines over the past year as the media dramatically covered the actor’s divorce, followed by a defamation suit with ex-wife Amber Heard. Since then, news outlets have grabbed onto any and all information that may hint at Johnny Depp’s return to film, specifically for Disney. Depp was famously quoted as agreeing that he would never return to Disney after they fired him from his role as Captain Jack Sparrow. However, that hasn’t stopped the actor from using his prowess as the “greatest pirate we’ve ever seen” to make lives better for others.

Johnny Depp is nothing short of an accomplished actor. The talented actor has appeared in at least 69 different films. Depp’s range has made him one of the most notable faces in Hollywood, and his films typically fill seats in theaters. Johnny Depp has given movie-goers some of the most notable performances caught on camera, many of which have earned him high honor among Hollywood elite. Some of Depp’s unforgettable performances include Willy Wonka in Charlie and the Chocolate Factory (2005), Victor Van Dort in Tim Burton’s Corpse Bride (2005), and Sir James Berrie in Finding Neverland (2004). Depp has worked alongside several other celebrated names like Leonardo DiCaprio, Brad Pitt, and Al Pacino. He has also dabbles in production and directing. Despite all of the accolades, however, Depp’s legacy will be remembered differently for one family.

Johnny Depp says goodbye to terminally ill pirates of the caribbean fan

Credit: Celebrityabc, Flickr

Johnny Depp and “Captain Kori”

Depp was immortalized as the pirate captain once Disney’s first film, Pirates of the Caribbean: Curse of the Black Pearl, set sail in theaters in 2003. Since then, Depp has utilized his influence as Jack Sparrow to give back. We’ve seen Johnny Depp surprise Guests at Disneyland dressed as the iconic pirate. Depp even once led a mutiny at the request of children in a school alongside co-star Stephen Graham. Among his numerous castings, Depp is well known for his charity work and loyalty to fans. Depp understands that his characters have a deep connection.

The best display of the intimate relationship that Depp shares with his fans is Kori Stovell, an 11-year-old terminally ill child born with an undisclosed heart condition. In December, through Make-a-Wish, Depp took time out of his schedule and met with Stovell via video conferencing. Due to his love of Depp’s Captain Jack Sparrow and Disney’s Pirates of the Caribbean franchise, Stovall, who had undergone two different heart transplants, wished to meet Depp and ask the famous actor to subscribe to his Youtube Channel “Kraken the Box.” During the meeting, Depp dubbed Stovell “Captain Kori” and promised to follow the child’s Youtube channel. 

I shall be glad to follow your YouTube channel, and I shall tell all my friends to follow your YouTube channel. I think it will make for a wonderful entertainment expertise momentary lapse of togetherness altogether in one space, but far apart, but then, at the same time, very close,” Depp said during the video. 

Depp Says “Goodbye” To Terminally-Ill Fan

Sadly, People reported that “Captain Kori” passed away as neither of his transplant attempts were successful. Depp took to social media to pay tribute to Kori in response to the heartbreaking news proclaiming himself as Kori’s number one fan. Depp provided the following heartfelt message via Instagram that we’re sure “Captain Kori” would be proud of.

johnny depp captain jack sparrow pirates of the caribbean disney

Credit: Disney

Sail on my fellow captain!! You honored us with your life. You humbled and amazed us with the courage and strength to be able to smile through it all. You’ve shown everyone of us how to stay ahead of the curve with grace, humor, and incomprehensible understanding and unparalleled dignity. You are a warrior, mate…we will meet again on the highest of seas…all my love and respect to you and your family always!!! X JD.

Johnny Depp Honors Death of Terminally Ill Boy Whose Bucket List Wish Was to Meet Captain Jack Sparrow

Credit: Johnny Depp/ Instagram

This gesture by Johnny Depp goes way beyond the typical coverage involving speculation about his return to Pirates of the Caribbean or where he stands concerning Amber Heard. Instead, it is a testament to Depp’s ability to create something so powerful in his eternal portrayal of Captain Jack Sparrow that it unites human beings in times of pain and suffering. It stands as evidence of Johnny Depp’s appreciation and deep love for his fanbase. It shows that while the media is busy using Depp for clicks, he’s more concerned with humanity and giving back to those who gave him so much.

About Michael Arnold

Michael is a father, husband, and an Army Veteran. Michael spends his weekends at Walt Disney World and Universal Orlando checking out new merchandise and food. Michael is a graduate of the University of Alabama and has an education background in Public Health. You can find Michael riding Pirates of the Caribbean over and over again or binge watching new Marvel and Star Wars content. Han shot first. Thor is the strongest Avenger. Roll Tide and Wash Your Hands!