In a rather peculiar turn of events, Hollywood actor Johnny Depp has found himself in the midst of a budding friendship with none other than Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. Described by Vanity Fair as a “bromance like no other,” this unlikely pairing has raised eyebrows and sparked conversations around the motives behind their newfound camaraderie.
According to the profile in Vanity Fair, Depp has been on the receiving end of lavish treatment during his visits to Saudi Arabia. The Crown Prince reportedly spared no expense in hosting the actor, offering him accommodation in royal palaces, chauffeuring him in helicopters, yachts, and even a private plane. It is not surprising that money plays a significant role in this seemingly unprecedented “bromance.” Depp’s involvement in the Saudi film industry has been met with financial incentives, as he awaits a potentially lucrative deal to become one of the country’s global cultural ambassadors.
Saudi Arabia, led by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, has been making concerted efforts to reshape its image on the global stage. It comes as no surprise, then, that the wealthy nation would seek alliances with influential figures in the entertainment industry to divert attention from its reported human rights abuses. The Saudi Crown Prince has been investing heavily in movies, using his immense wealth to buy his way into various global industries. Depp’s friendship with MBS appears to be a part of this grand plan to overshadow criticism and promote an image of cultural revolution.
The friendship between Johnny Depp and Prince Mohammed bin Salman reportedly blossomed during the filming of “Jeanne du Barry,” a movie financed by the Saudis. Over time, the two have grown exceptionally close, to the extent that Depp claims to have felt comfortable broaching sensitive topics with MBS. The Vanity Fair profile suggests that Depp even asked the Crown Prince about the murder of Washington Post journalist Jamal Khashoggi. While MBS denied ordering Khashoggi’s dismemberment, he did take responsibility for the incident, asserting that he only intended to have the reporter arrested. Depp appears to be won over by MBS’ narrative, asserting that he has witnessed a cultural revolution firsthand during his time in Saudi Arabia.
It seems that the Saudi Crown Prince’s influence extends beyond film production and global alliances. Saudi Arabia is financing Depp’s directorial debut, a biopic about Italian artist Amedeo Modigliani starring the legendary Al Pacino. This collaboration not only speaks to the financial ties between the two men but also highlights their shared interest in revamping their public personas.
While Johnny Depp and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman may highlight their shared cultural interests and personal rapport, it is difficult to overlook the immense wealth and influence that underpin their friendship. It is doubtful that they would have forged such a bond if not for the Crown Prince’s vast reserves of oil money. This raises questions about the authenticity of their connection and the motives behind their public displays of camaraderie.
The unlikely “bromance” between Johnny Depp and Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman has attracted attention and speculation. As the two men continue to collaborate and promote their shared interests, it remains to be seen how this friendship will evolve and whether it will endure beyond the realms of money and PR strategies.
Leave a Reply