Key Takeaways:
– Johnny Depp's career breakthrough was the 1980s TV show, 21 Jump Street.
– Depp disliked the fame that came with his role as Tom Hanson.
– The actor's collaborations with John Waters and Tim Burton helped him break away from his heartthrob image.
– His role in Burton's Edward Scissorhands established Depp as a versatile character actor.
– Depp's portrayal of Captain Jack Sparrow in the Pirates of the Caribbean franchise solidified him as one of Hollywood's biggest stars.
Breaking into Hollywood: The Johnny Depp Story
Johnny Depp, loved by millions today for his eccentric roles, got his first taste of fame in Hollywood with the 1980s show, 21 Jump Street. Since then, he has evolved into one of the most revered character actors in the industry. However, his journey to stardom was not a smooth one.
Johnny Depp in 21 Jump Street
Johnny Depp's role as Tom Hanson in 21 Jump Street made him a major heartthrob. Notably, he didn't enjoy the fame that came with it. John Waters, who worked with Depp on Cry-Baby, recalled that Depp couldn't even leave his house due to his overwhelming popularity. Fans were incredibly drawn to him, Waters said, “hundreds of girls would be running and falling backward and crying.” The frenzy was such that fans even tried to buy sewage water underneath Depp's trailer.
As Depp's profile reached peak popularity, he yearned for a change.
The Turning Point: Johnny Depp's Collaboration with Tim Burton
Johnny Depp's first collaboration with Tim Burton came when Depp sought to break out of his heartthrob image and delve into more diverse roles. They began their iconic partnership with Edward Scissorhands, a role that enabled Depp to break away from his 21 Jump Street persona successfully.
The pair's collaborations contributed to some of their best-known works. Commenting on the change Depp underwent with Burton, Waters said, “We did help him change that. Then Tim Burton came in and everything changed.”
Exploring Newer Horizons: Johnny Depp's Eccentric Roles Take Center Stage
Post Edward Scissorhands, Depp began accepting more eccentric roles, highlighting his versatility as an actor. One role that boosted his career was Patrick Bateman in the adaptation of American Psycho. Although this did not materialize, it led to him landing the role of Jack Sparrow in the Pirates of the Caribbean franchise, cementing his place as one of Hollywood's biggest stars.
Conclusion
Johnny Depp's career trajectory serves as testimony to his immense acting versatility. He went from being a teen heartthrob to establishing himself as a character actor known for his eccentric roles, ensuring his place in Hollywood's hall of fame.
Note: Edward Scissorhands is currently available for streaming on Disney Plus.
