Johnny Depp reveals his approach to playing Ebenezer Scrooge; says “Nobody’s born mean”

A new featurette offers a glimpse into Paramount Pictures’ dark reimagining of Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol.

October 28, 2026 - 5:55 PM IST

Johnny Depp is set to bring a fresh interpretation to one of literature’s most recognisable characters in Ebenezer, Paramount Pictures’ dark reimagining of Charles Dickens’ classic Christmas tale. In a newly released featurette, the actor opens up about his approach to playing Ebenezer Scrooge, explaining why he wanted to look beyond the character’s familiar image as a miserly and greedy old man.

Johnny Depp reveals his approach to playing Ebenezer Scrooge; says “Nobody’s born mean”

The featurette offers a glimpse into Depp’s portrayal of Scrooge, the central character of Dickens’ beloved novella A Christmas Carol. Rather than approaching the role solely through the character’s unpleasant traits, the actor sought a different perspective on what makes Scrooge who he is.

Speaking about his interpretation in the featurette, Depp said, “With Ebenezer Scrooge, I was looking for a different way in than just the idea of this miserable, greedy old guy. Nobody’s born mean or with some ambition to just piss everyone off.”

The actor also reflected on the enduring appeal of Dickens’ story, which combines supernatural elements with themes that continue to resonate across generations. While the narrative carries deeper messages, Depp believes humour remains an important part of its appeal. “There are deep messages that are very profound. But at the same time I am going to see the humor in it,” he added.

Directed by Ti West, Ebenezer features a screenplay by Nathaniel Halpern, based on Dickens’ A Christmas Carol. The film reimagines the familiar ghost story through a darker cinematic lens, with Depp leading an ensemble cast that includes Rupert Grint, Andrea Riseborough, Sam Claflin, Daisy Ridley, Arthur Conti, Ellie Bamber, Henry Lloyd-Hughes and Charlie Murphy. Tramell Tillman and Ian McKellen are also part of the cast.

The film is produced by Emma Watts, with Ti West and several others serving as executive producers. Its new featurette gives audiences an early look at the creative thinking behind Depp’s take on Scrooge, a character whose journey has been adapted for the screen numerous times.

With its darker approach to a familiar literary classic and Depp’s interpretation at its centre, Ebenezer is gearing up for its theatrical release in India on November 20, 2026.

Also Read: Johnny Depp is a haunting ‘Ebenezer Scrooge’ in the chilling new trailer for Ebenezer: A Christmas Carol