After scoring a $200 million decline from On Stranger Tides to Dead Men Tell No Tales, the result on paper may have been worrisome for many studios. But surprisingly, Pirates has only gotten more popular in some overseas markets, with a profitable $800 million overall backed by a $250 million budget. With its domestic appeal waning, Disney has took its time with the next installment of the franchise, with many wondering if it would happen at all. Though recent events within the mouse house may make Depp's return uncertain, Pirates fans may be thankful to hear that the franchise is currently moving forward.
According to Omega Underground, who has been spot on as of late, Joachim Rønning, co-director of the latest installment, will take the reigns once again for Pirates of the Caribbean 6. Ted Elliot, Terry Rossio, and Jeff Nathanson, all of which are franchise veterans, are currently at work on the screenplay. Due to Rønning's involvement in Maleficent 2, don't expect the Pirates sequel to be coming soon. At the earliest the film may hit theaters 2021, four years after its predecessor.
Following the controversy surrounding Johnny Depp and Fantastic Beasts, there is no doubt that Disney has itself in a tough spot, especially with the James Gunn situation looming over Hollywood. To be fair, the character of Jack Sparrow has only become less interesting, being labeled as unnecessary comedic relief by those more interested in the Turner-Swann dynamic. Untimately, only time will tell if the Pirates franchise will move forward without him.