The head of DC Films testified Tuesday that the studio explored replacing Amber Heard as the star of “Aquaman 2” because she lacked chemistry with Jason Momoa.
Heard was eventually cast in the sequel, but her lawyers claim that due to the outcry surrounding her domestic violence allegations against Johnny Depp, she nearly lost the job and was unable to bargain for more money. In a defamation counterclaim against Depp, Heard is seeking $100 million.
Depp’s side brought Walter Hamada, the head of Warner Bros.’ DC unit, as the first witness in their rebuttal of Heard’s counterclaim in Fairfax, Va.
Hamada testified via video deposition that the claims of sexual assault had no bearing on casting decisions for “Aquaman 2.”
He did say, though, that the studio delayed picking up its option for several weeks while deciding whether to recast Mera, Aquaman’s love interest in the first film.
The chemistry, according to Hamada, was generated in post-production utilizing “movie magic,” which included the film’s score. He claims that chemistry issues between two leaders are common.
“Aquaman 2,” which will be released next year, was planned as a “buddy comedy” between Momoa and Patrick Wilson, who plays Aquaman’s half-brother, King Orm.
Heard claims that her character has been “pared down” significantly over time, although Hamada testified that it has stayed unchanged since the film’s inception in 2018.
Heard’s team has claimed that the online campaign against her over her abuse allegations against Depp cost her at least one other role — an Amazon feature with Gael Garcia Bernal — as well as lucrative endorsement deals.
