Johnny Depp was never an overly popular choice to play Gellert Grindelwald in the Fantastic Beasts franchise, so the news that he had essentially been fired by Warner Bros. didn't upset too many people. This came about after his very public court battle with The Sun newspaper over their decision to brand him a "wife-beater" following a series of allegations made by ex-wife Amber Heard.
Now, the hunt is on for a new Grindelwald, and it was recently reported that Doctor Strange and Rogue One: A Star Wars Story star Mads Mikkelsen is in early talks for Fantastic Beasts 3.
IGN recently caught up with the actor to discuss his role in the long-delayed Lionsgate movie Chaos Walking, and asked him whether there's any truth to him heading to the Wizarding World. As you might expect, Mikkelsen chose his words carefully when addressing that possibility.
"Oh, that is on the rumor basis as we speak," the prolific, popular actor claimed. "So I know as much as you do from the newspapers. So I'm waiting for that phone call."
It seems likely that Mikkelsen is just playing coy, and can't comment on where things stand with his possible deal to star in the Harry Potter spinoff series. However, if he decides against playing the villain, then it will be very interesting to see where Warner Bros. turns next.
We'll keep you guys updated.