Key Highlights
- Paramount Pictures is in final negotiations to produce “Ebenezer: A Christmas Carol” with Johnny Depp starring and Ti West directing.
- The film is scheduled for release on November 13, 2026.
- This marks the second Christmas Carol adaptation announced this year after Warner Bros.’ project with Robert Eggers.
- Ti West’s previous works include the horror trilogy X, Pearl, and MaXXXine.
Johnny Depp to Star in New ‘Christmas Carol’ Adaptation
In a significant move for the film industry following Paramount Pictures’ recent merger with Skydance Media, the studio is finalizing plans for an adaptation of Charles Dickens’ classic tale “A Christmas Carol.” Johnny Depp has been cast as Ebenezer Scrooge in the project directed by Ti West.
Production Details and Cast
The film, titled “Ebenezer: A Christmas Carol,” is set to be released on November 13, 2026. Nathaniel Halpern has penned the screenplay, with Emma Watts producing. Andrea Riseborough also joins the cast in an as-yet-unnamed role.
Depp’s involvement comes at a time when he is making a comeback in Hollywood after his defamation lawsuit victory in 2022.
Since then, the actor has been part of productions like “Day Drinker,” where he co-starred with Penélope Cruz. His portrayal of Scrooge fits well within his career trajectory, having previously played diverse characters such as Captain Jack Sparrow, the Mad Hatter, Ichabod Crane, and Willy Wonka.
Ti West: Bringing Ghost Stories to Life
Director Ti West is known for his work in the horror genre with films like “X,” “Pearl,” and “MaXXXine.” This marks his first major studio production, where he will adapt a classic holiday tale. West’s ability to infuse supernatural elements into his storytelling aligns well with the essence of “A Christmas Carol.”
West’s previous works showcase his talent in creating atmospheric and suspenseful narratives, making him an ideal choice for this project. The combination of Depp and West is expected to bring a unique perspective to the story.
Industry Context and Implications
The announcement of “Ebenezer: A Christmas Carol” comes at a time when Hollywood is gradually opening its doors to Johnny Depp, following his successful legal battle. This project could further solidify his standing in the industry, providing a platform for more challenging roles.
Additionally, this adaptation aligns with the trend of reimagining classic stories within the holiday season, a strategy that has proven popular among audiences and filmmakers alike. With the announcement of Robert Eggers’ “A Christmas Carol” at Warner Bros., both projects are part of a broader push to capitalize on the festive season.
Industry experts believe that such high-profile adaptations could potentially boost box office revenues during the holiday period, making them attractive ventures for studios.
Conclusion
The announcement of Johnny Depp’s involvement in “Ebenezer: A Christmas Carol” signals a significant move for Paramount Pictures and Ti West. As both the film industry and audiences seek to explore new interpretations of classic stories, this project promises to deliver a unique take on Dickens’ timeless tale.
