Johnny Depp has undergone a striking transformation for his role as Ebenezer Scrooge in the upcoming adaptation of Charles Dickens' "A Christmas Carol". Set photos from the film, titled "Ebenezer: A Christmas Carol," reveal Depp in full Victorian costume, making him almost unrecognizable. The movie is directed by Ti West, known for his horror films such as "X," "Pearl," and "MaXXXine," suggesting a potentially darker take on the classic tale.
In the leaked images, which first surfaced via the Daily Mail, Depp sports a blue brocade overcoat, a black cap, and long gray sideburns. The transformation is a significant departure from the flamboyant looks that have defined many of his most famous roles. He was seen on set in the United Kingdom, filming scenes with Andrea Riseborough, who plays the Ghost of Christmas Past. Riseborough is also heavily costumed, wearing a white gown, wig, and pale contact lenses to complete her ghostly appearance. Between takes, Depp was seen smiling and chatting with Riseborough.
"Ebenezer: A Christmas Carol" marks Depp's return to major Hollywood studio films after several years. His last major movie role was in "Fantastic Beasts: The Crimes of Grindelwald" in 2018. Following his highly publicized defamation trial, this role signifies a resurgence for the actor. Depp has appeared in smaller projects, such as "Modi: Three Days on the Wing of Madness".
The film is scheduled to be released by Paramount Pictures on November 13, 2026. The screenplay is written by Nathaniel Halpern, known for his work on "Legion". Emma Watts is producing the film. The cast includes Ian McKellen, Daisy Ridley, Rupert Grint, Tramell Tillman, Sam Claflin, Charlie Murphy, Arthur Conti, and Ellie Bamber.
"Ebenezer: A Christmas Carol" will follow the classic story of Ebenezer Scrooge, a miserly old man who is visited by the ghosts of Christmas Past, Present, and Future. These visitations lead him to confront his past misdeeds and seek redemption. Given Ti West's background in horror, this adaptation may offer a thrilling and gothic reimagining of Dickens' timeless story.
Notably, another "Christmas Carol" adaptation is also in development, with Robert Eggers directing and Willem Dafoe potentially playing Scrooge, promising a horror-centric lens on the classic tale.