Few other characters have had such an effect on Depp's career than the wayward, crafty, Keith Richards-inspired Pirate.

Jack was a surprise for everyone - even Disney executives who were outraged during shooting for Curse Of The Black Pearl that Depp had been allowed to make the salty sea dog quite as out there as he became.

But once audiences embraced him, all was well and the Pirates franchise has sailed on to billions, with an Oscar nomination swinging Johnny's way.

With the departure of Disney studio chief Dick Cook and no firm director for the fourth Pirates film (though Rob Marshall is rumoured to be aboard for On Stranger Tides), the franchise stands at a crossroads.

"There's a fissure, a crack in my enthusiasm at the moment," Depp said about Cook's departure and the future of the movies. "It was all born in that office."

We're sure he'll show up for at least one more outing, especially if Disney offers him enough dosh.
 

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