Johnny Depp to Play Ebenezer Scrooge in New Film

The timeless tale of “A Christmas Carol” by Charles Dickens is set to receive a new cinematic interpretation, with reports indicating that Johnny Depp is in final negotiations to star as the iconic misanthrope Ebenezer Scrooge in Paramount Pictures’ upcoming adaptation, tentatively titled “Ebenezer: A Christmas Carol.” Adding an intriguing layer to the project, acclaimed horror director Ti West is slated to helm the film, suggesting a potentially distinct take on the holiday classic. This development marks a significant moment for both Depp’s career and the enduring legacy of Dickens’ narrative.

Johnny Depp Steps into the Role of Ebenezer Scrooge

Johnny Depp is reportedly in final discussions to portray Ebenezer Scrooge, the central character in Charles Dickens’ 1843 novella. Scrooge, a wealthy yet notoriously miserly and cold-hearted businessman in 19th-century London, undergoes a profound transformation after being visited by the ghosts of Christmas Past, Present, and Yet to Come. The role is a staple of holiday cinema, having been portrayed by numerous actors across various adaptations, including Alastair Sim in the 1951 classic, Bill Murray in the modern retelling “Scrooged” (1988), and Michael Caine in “The Muppet Christmas Carol” (1992). Depp’s potential casting brings a familiar face to a character known for his complexity and eventual redemption.

This project would represent Depp’s return to a major studio production after his last major role in 2018’s “Fantastic Beasts: The Crimes of Grindelwald”. Since then, he has appeared in independent films such as “Minamata” and “Jeanne du Barry,” and recently completed filming the thriller “Day Drinker” alongside Penélope Cruz for Lionsgate.

Ti West to Direct, Bringing a Unique Vision

The direction of “Ebenezer: A Christmas Carol” will be undertaken by Ti West, known for his work in the horror genre, including films like “Pearl” and “Maxxxine”. West’s involvement signals a potentially fresh and perhaps darker perspective on the well-trodden narrative. While “A Christmas Carol” is fundamentally a ghost story, its various adaptations have largely emphasized its heartwarming and moral elements. West’s distinct stylistic approach could introduce an atmospheric depth or a more unsettling portrayal of the spectral visitations that are integral to Scrooge’s journey.

The screenplay for this adaptation is being penned by Nathaniel Halpern, recognized for his work on television series such as “Tales from the Loop” and “Legion”. The combination of Halpern’s storytelling and West’s directorial vision suggests a production that aims to reinterpret the classic with contemporary sensibilities. Emma Watts is producing the film, with Stephen Deuters and Jason Forman serving as executive producers.

Co-Star Andrea Riseborough and Production Details

Joining Depp in the cast is Andrea Riseborough, known for her performances in films like “Oblivion” and “To Leslie”. The specifics of her role have not yet been publicly disclosed, but her presence suggests a strong supporting performance to complement the lead. Paramount Pictures is reportedly targeting a release date of November 13, 2026, for “Ebenezer: A Christmas Carol”. This places the film in a prime pre-holiday release window, allowing it to become a seasonal offering for audiences.

A Crowded Christmas Carol Landscape

The enduring popularity of Charles Dickens’ story means that new adaptations are frequently in development. Notably, another high-profile take on “A Christmas Carol” is reportedly being developed by director Robert Eggers, known for “Nosferatu,” with Willem Dafoe rumored to be circling the role of Scrooge at Warner Bros.. This indicates a continued fascination within Hollywood for revisiting the classic tale, often with distinctive directorial voices and prominent actors. Each new version offers an opportunity to explore different facets of the story, from its social commentary to its supernatural elements and its message of redemption.

Conclusion

The prospect of Johnny Depp starring as Ebenezer Scrooge in “Ebenezer: A Christmas Carol,” under the direction of Ti West for Paramount Pictures, presents an intriguing blend of classic literature and contemporary filmmaking talent. With a script by Nathaniel Halpern and Andrea Riseborough co-starring, the project holds the potential to deliver a fresh, impactful adaptation of Dickens’ beloved holiday narrative. As the film progresses towards its planned November 2026 release, audiences will be watching to see how this creative team reimagines a story that has resonated for generations.