Full Breakdown
Johnny Depp’s Scrooge Surprise at Comic-Con Promotes Gothic Holiday Film
7/24/2026, 1:31:01 PM
Core Event: Unannounced Scrooge Appearance at San Diego Comic-Con
On July 23, the 63-year-old actor arrived at San Diego’s Gaslamp district in full Ebenezer Scrooge costume—top hat, cane, black coat and gray facial hair—to promote Ti West’s upcoming Paramount picture *Ebenezer*. The stunt unfolded outside a pop-up shop called “Scrooge and Marley,” where Depp emerged, addressed the crowd in character, handed out candy, and delivered a brief monologue that included the line, “Have you all no lives?” The appearance was unplanned for the Collider “Directors on Directing” panel and was captured on video by multiple outlets.
Background & Context: Depp’s Return After a High-Profile Legal Battle
*Ebenezer* marks Depp’s first major Hollywood studio film since the 2022 defamation trial with ex-spouse Amber Heard, in which a jury found both parties guilty of defamation. The outcome awarded Depp $10 million in compensatory damages and $5 million in punitive damages, while Heard received $2 million. Since that case, Depp has appeared in international projects and is now returning to a mainstream U.S. release.
Timeline
- July 23 – Depp’s surprise Scrooge appearance at Comic-Con, followed by the debut of the film’s trailer.
- November 13 – *Ebenezer* slated to open in theaters nationwide.
Data & Statistics
- The Comic-Con stunt was Depp’s third appearance at the event, following surprise visits in 2009 and 2018.
- The film’s cast includes Ian McKellen, Rupert Grint, Andrea Riseborough, Tramell Tillman, Daisy Ridley and Sam Claflin.
- Paramount Pictures is distributing the movie, scheduled for a November 13 theatrical release.
Official Statements & Responses
He added that the industry still needs each other.
On-the-Ground Reports
Attendees described the scene as a “faux 1880s British Christmas village” complete with carolers, a candle-lit entrance and a crowd that gathered for hours before the actor’s arrival. After delivering his Scrooge-style rebuke, Depp tossed handfuls of candy onto the pavement, prompting applause and laughter.
Verbatim Quotes
- “I fell in love with him,” — Ian McKellen, actor
- “It really has been an extraordinary privilege,” — Johnny Depp, actor
What’s Next
The film’s marketing will continue through the fall, culminating in its November 13 theatrical debut. Paramount has indicated additional promotional events are planned, though specific dates have not been disclosed.
