Fantastic Beasts 3: Johnny Depp’s exit results in July 2022 release date

Last Updated on July 30, 2021

Shortly after apparating Johnny Depp from the franchise, Warner Bros. has announced that Fantastic Beasts 3 will release on July 15, 2022.

Potterheads are likely to recognize the mid-July launch date, seeing as several Harry Potter movies arrived during the same window, including Order of the Phoenix, Half-Blood Prince, and Death Hallows Part 2.

Johnny Depp recently took to his Instagram to reveal his departure from the series, saying, "I wish to let you know that I have been asked to resign by Warner Bros. from my role as Grindelwald in Fantastic Beasts and I have respected and agreed to that request." You can check out his full post below:

For the moment, Warner Bros. has yet to name Depp's replacement for the part of Grindelwald. Some have floated the idea of Colin Farrell taking up the villainous part, though this seems unlikely given that he's busy playing Oswald Cobblepot / The Penguin for Matt Reeves' The Batman. Depp's departure from the Fantastic Beasts franchise has been met with a variety of reactions, ranging from calls for a celebration to anger on behalf of his unwavering supporters. Depp was recently labeled as a "wife-beater" in his relationship with Aquaman actress Amber Heard, who also stands as a controversial figure following the UK court's ruling.

Who do you think should replace Johnny Depp as Grindelwald for Fantastic Beasts 3? My vote would be for Hannibal actor Mads Mikkelsen, though I feel as if chances are slim for that dream casting. Let's hear your casting ideas in the comments section below.