The upcoming film “The Fall Guy,” starring Ryan Gosling and Emily Blunt, is facing criticism due to a joke referencing the tumultuous relationship between Johnny Depp and Amber Heard.
Although the action comedy is set for release on Friday, it’s already drawing ire from early viewers for a particular line of dialogue that appears to trivialize domestic violence.
The controversial remark is made by Hannah Waddingham’s character, Gail Meyer, who quips, “it’s like Amber and Johnny were just in here,” while surveying a trailer in disarray on a movie set following a fight.
The joke directly alludes to the well-publicized and contentious marriage between Johnny Depp and Amber Heard, both of whom have accused each other of domestic violence since their split in 2016.
Reactions to the line have been swift and critical, with some expressing disappointment that such a joke would be included in a film, especially given the serious nature of domestic abuse.
One viewer commented, “Abuse is not a punchline, Amber can’t catch a damn break.”
Others highlighted their disappointment with Hannah Waddingham, known for her advocacy for feminist causes, for agreeing to deliver the line.
Despite the controversy, “The Fall Guy,” also starring Aaron Taylor-Johnson, is anticipated to make a strong debut at the box office, with projections ranging from $20 million to $65 million.
Meanwhile, the legal battles between Johnny Depp and Amber Heard have finally concluded, with the defamation case settled in December 2022. Heard has since relocated to Madrid, Spain, focusing on motherhood and her career.
