In a surprising turn of events, actor Johnny Depp and Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman have formed what can only be described as a “bromance like no other.” Vanity Fair recently published a profile detailing their relationship, highlighting the extravagant treatment Depp has received during his visits to Saudi Arabia. This unusual pairing has raised eyebrows and sparked speculation about the motivations behind their friendship.
According to Vanity Fair, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman went to great lengths to ensure that Depp enjoyed his time in Saudi Arabia. The actor was generously accommodated in royal palaces and transported in helicopters, yachts, and even a private plane. It is no secret that money played a significant role in this “bromance,” as Depp’s involvement in Saudi Arabian cinema is financially lucrative. He is waiting for a potential seven-figure deal to become one of the nation’s global cultural ambassadors.
Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman has been actively investing in the film industry as part of his grand plan to divert attention from Saudi Arabia’s alleged human rights abuses. By buying his way into global industries, he hopes to reshape public perception of the country. The relationship between Depp and the Crown Prince began when the actor was shooting a film bankrolled by the Saudis. Since then, they have grown closer, with Depp reportedly feeling comfortable enough to discuss sensitive topics like the killing of journalist Jamal Khashoggi with the Crown Prince.
Johnny Depp seems to have fully embraced Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s vision of a cultural revolution in Saudi Arabia. The actor claims to have personally experienced the transformation taking place in the region. He has had the opportunity to meet people from different parts of the Arab world who have warmly shared their culture, traditions, and stories with him. In fact, Saudi Arabia is providing financial support for Depp’s directorial debut, a biopic about Italian artist Amedeo Modigliani starring Al Pacino.
While Johnny Depp and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman both seem to be benefiting from this friendship, it is hard to ignore the influence of money and the politics of image building. Both men have faced public scrutiny and are in the midst of reshaping their public personas. Depp’s involvement in the Saudi film industry could potentially help revitalize his career, while the Crown Prince’s association with a Hollywood A-lister adds a veneer of cultural progressiveness to his controversial rule. Without the allure of vast oil wealth, it is doubtful that they would have formed such a close bond.
The unexpected and seemingly unlikely friendship between Johnny Depp and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman has captivated the public’s attention. Their shared interests in cinema and the desire for a positive public image have brought them together. However, it remains to be seen how genuine and long-lasting this “bromance” truly is. As Depp continues his work in Saudi Arabia and the Crown Prince expands his influence, their friendship will undoubtedly continue to pique curiosity and draw speculation.
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