Despite the controversy surrounding Amber Heard and her legal battle with ex-husband Johnny Depp, the actress has been confirmed to appear in the upcoming sequel, "Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom." The news of Heard's role in the film has garnered mixed reactions on Twitter.
Heard's brief appearance in the trailer for the "Aquaman" sequel, which premiered at Warner Bros CinemaCon, has fueled debates about her continued involvement in the film despite losing the defamation case against Depp. Deadline reported that Heard has a cameo in a battle scene.
Twitter users shared their thoughts about Heard's return to the franchise, with some supporting her right to work and others arguing that there is a double standard in play. Songwriter Andy Matteo commented, "I don't like seeing anyone canceled or shunned for personal matters or mistakes or controversy. She should still be able to work, and the trial shouldn't ruin her career."
In response, gamer, creator, and rapper Solgob replied, "If the roles in the case were reversed, Johnny Depp wouldn't only NOT be in the movie or other movies, he would also be in jail." Other users argued that male celebrities who have faced similar allegations have continued their careers with minimal consequences.
Some Twitter users stated that they will not watch the film due to Heard's involvement, while others urged the public to separate her personal life from her work. Gamer and streamer DiamonDagger wrote, "I love Jason [Momoa], but sorry, not even he is gonna get me to watch it if she's in it."
Heard testified during the Virginia defamation case that the film's production team wanted to remove her from the project, but she fought to remain in the movie as Mera. "I fought really hard to stay in the movie," she said. However, she added that her role had been significantly reduced, calling it "a very pared-down version of that role."
"Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom" is set to be released in theaters on December 20.