J.K. Rowling stands firm on decision to have Johnny Depp in ‘Fantastic Beasts’

“Harry Potter” book series author J.K. Rowling is standing firm on her decision to cast Johnny Depp for the movie sequel of “Fantastic Beasts And Where To Find Them.” Questions about his inclusion came in after domestic violence allegations involving the award-winning actor surfaced, Fortune reported.

Amber Heard, Depp’s former wife was concerned about his upcoming participation in the film since she has accused the actor of allegedly abusing her during their marriage. She previously requested a restraining order in the case against the Hollywood actor after ending their 15-month marriage.

She said that that actor “had been abusive” on various occasions, including an incident that allegedly left her “In fear for her life.” The “Alice In Wonderland” actor denied these allegations and called these accusations “salacious false stories, gossip, misinformation, and lies.”

His legal counsel also viewed this as Heard’s way of catapulting herself to “fifteen minutes of fame.” Now that he is slated to become part of a spin-off movie from the popular “Harry Potter” series, the novel’s author, J.K. Rowling, has also broken her silence.

J.K. Rowling

Rowling wrote on her website that she understands how some fans may have “legitimate questions and concerns” about Johnny being chosen for the role.

However, she also noted that the entire team is “genuinely happy to have [him] playing a major character in the movies.”

“For me personally, the inability to speak openly to fans about this issue has been difficult, frustrating and at time painful,” the author continued. She added that the “supportive community” built around the popular series is among the “greatest joys” of her life.

Depp is slated to portray the character of Grindelwald, one of the villains in the series. Grindelwald also had an encounter with Hogwarts headmaster Dumbledore in the main book. Rowling further noted that the “desire” of Amber and Johnny “to get on with their lives must be respected.”

Director David Yates

Meanwhile, movie director David Yates also shared the same sentiments as the book author.

He also recognized that the issue between the former couple has to be respected.

Nevertheless, the director pointed out that “cases, where there are multiple accusers,” have to be “examined,” adding that it is “a dead issue.” He also said that they are aware of the reports about his failed marriage and the relevant issues associated with it.

“We stand by our decision to have Johnny in the films,” Yates added. “Fantastic Beasts,” tells the story of a wizard in his journey in 1920s America searching for the magical beasts found in the series.