‘Pirates of the Caribbean’ Is Coming Back... But Not How You Remember It
A new Pirates of the Caribbean movie is in the works with returning stars, a fresh story, and big questions around Johnny Depp’s future.
Producer Jerry Bruckheimer has officially confirmed that “Pirates of the Caribbean” 6 is in development, promising a bold new take on the beloved franchise that retains ties to its roots. The project is rolling forward with a screenplay in progress and may blend returning cast members with new characters.
“We’re working on a screenplay. Hopefully we’ll get it right,” Bruckheimer told Screen Rant, confirming active development. While specifics remain under wraps, he added, “not all new actors. We’ll have some back… you’ll have to guess.”
The franchise, which began in 2003 and has grossed more than $4.5 billion worldwide, last released “Dead Men Tell No Tales” in 2017. The proposed sixth installment follows industry delays and high-profile speculation involving Johnny Depp’s return as Captain Jack Sparrow.
Johnny Depp poses for a picture on the red carpet of the awards ceremony of the 4th edition of Red Sea Film Festival in Jeddah on December 12, 2024.
One of the most debated questions surrounding the new “Pirates” film is whether Johnny Depp will reprise his iconic role. Bruckheimer remained noncommittal but left the door open. He previously told ComicBook.com, “But we’re gonna reboot Pirates, so that is easier to put together because you don’t have to wait for certain actors.” Still, he admitted, “…it was up to me, he would be in it,” per reporting from Decider.
Bruckheimer has confirmed that screenwriter Jeff Nathanson—who wrote “Dead Men Tell No Tales”—is working on the script. He noted, “We have two scripts… Jeff Nathanson is working on a script. We have another one…” According to Culture Slate, Bruckheimer said Nathanson has “an amazing third act” and the team is refining the first two.
Meanwhile, a separate female-led “Pirates” spin-off starring Margot Robbie with Christina Hodson as writer was announced in 2020 but was later shelved. Robbie confirmed the project is no longer moving forward, though Bruckheimer has stated Disney may still revisit it later.
(L-R) Actor Johnny Depp, dressed as Captain Jack Sparrow and producer Jerry Bruckheimer at The Walt Disney Studios” presentation at Disney’s D23 EXPO 2015 in Anaheim, Calif.
Bruckheimer has described the project as a fresh reboot rather than a continuation, according to reports. The reboot aligns with Disney’s goal of remaking the franchise while allowing flexibility in casting because “you don’t have to wait for certain actors,” per Decider.
Amid growing anticipation, fans are speculating about the cast, with some hopeful for Depp’s return and others eager for a new lead. One source even mentioned a third script from Craig Mazin and Ted Elliott—the same writers initially tapped for a 2023 version—though that effort stalled amid strike delays.
As for Depp, he previously stated in court he would “never work with Disney” again—even for $300 million—which complicates any potential return. Still, Bruckheimer appears optimistic, calling Depp a “friend, a terrific actor” during an interview with The Hollywood Reporter and expressing hope his personal issues won’t block a comeback.
Bottom line: “Pirates of the Caribbean” 6 is officially in motion, presented as part reboot, part legacy sequel—energizing fan communities with possibilities ranging from Depp’s return to entirely new characters backed by a franchise worth over $4.5 billion. The next chapters promise to blend nostalgia with reinvention.