Johnny Depp’s Filming Fumble: An Assault Allegation on the Set
It looks like the “Pirates of the Caribbean” star, Johnny Depp, is trying to avoid a courtroom showdown over a bruising incident that fell out of the blue during the shooting of City of Lies.
The Grievance
Gregg “Rocky” Brooks, who was working as a crew member on the movie, filed legal papers back in 2018 claiming that Depp had punched him twice in the ribs with “malicious force.” More shockingly, the actor allegedly offered a hefty $100,000 (roughly S$138,500) to the location manager to “punch him in the face.”
What’s Brewing in the Courtroom
- The case is slated to reach the courts next month.
- Sources say Depp’s legal squad has been heavily negotiating with Gregg’s team until last week, hoping to hammer out a settlement before the trial kicks off.
- So far, nobody’s cracked the deal.
Depp’s Defense
According to Depp’s lawyer, the actor only walked off the set because he felt his safety – along with that of director Brad Furman – was at risk. He argues the alleged hit was a moment of self‑defence and a “defence of others” situation.
Depp’s own statements are pretty breezy:
“I had my assistant bring a bottle of wine, we toasted with paper cups. No harm, no foul. I apologized. He apologized. We hugged it out.”
What the Crew Says
Gregg’s filings slam Depp’s behavior, calling it “intentional and malicious” aimed at humiliating him. He also claims that “intoxication and temper” created a hostile, abusive and unsafe environment onboard.
He says the incident happened while he was enforcing a late‑night permit restriction during a night shoot, and, after refusing a release, he was subsequently fired from the production.
A Lawyer’s Take
Arbella Azizian, Gregg’s attorney, told reporters that their client wants a tougher stand so no one else faces Depp’s alleged “unprofessional conduct” in the future.
Director’s Side‑Story
Brad Furman, who helmed the film, spoke up in defense of Depp:
“Johnny is a consummate professional, an eager collaborator, and a champion for fellow artists. He always treats the crew with utmost respect. Movies get stressful; moments get blown up. Our story doesn’t follow that pattern.”
Will It Be a Trial or a Settlement?
All eyes are on whether the parties will reach a bargain or head straight to the bench. If they settle, the dust might settle faster than a Hollywood drama. If they go to trial, it could become a chapter that’s unforgettable for every cinema lover in the world.
Stay tuned – the reels are still rolling.
