After Johnny Depp announced he would step down from his role in the Fantastic Beasts film series, it has been reported that Mads Mikkelsen is allegedly in early talks to replace him.
According to a report by Deadline, Mikkelsen is apparently director David Yates' top choice to replace Johnny Depp as Grindlewald in the upcoming sequel.
Last week Johnny Depp announced he would leave the franchise after he lost his libel case against The Sun newspaper.
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The as-yet untitled third film, which saw production delayed due to the ongoing coronavirus, will follow the wizarding world's input during the Second World War. Jude Law and Eddie Redmayne are expected to reprise their roles as Albus Dumbledore and Newt Scamander, respectively.
Depp reportedly was asked to leave the film after only shooting one day. However he will be paid for the whole film.
With Depp's departure and disruption caused by the ongoing coronavirus pandemic, the film was moved from its original 12 November 2021 release date to summer 2022.
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On Friday, Depp confirmed his departure with a post to his 8.1m Instagram followers. "In light of recent events, I would like to make the following short statement," he wrote. "Firstly, I'd like to thank everybody who has gifted me with their support and loyalty. I have been humbled and moved by your many messages of love and concern, particularly over the last few days."
He continued: "I wish to let you know that I have been asked to resign by Warner Bros. from my role as Grindelwald in Fantastic Beasts and I have respected and agreed to that request."
The announcement also contained a reference to the court case, suggesting that the actor planned to appeal the court's decision.
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"Finally, I wish to say this. The surreal judgement of the court in the U.K. will not change my fight to tell the truth and I confirm that I plan to appeal," he said.
"My resolve remains strong and I intend to prove that the allegations against me are false. My life and career will not be defined by this moment in time."
Mads Mikkelsen is known for portraying Dr. Hannibal Lecter in the TV series Hannibal and Galen Erso in Rogue One.
Fantastic Beasts 3 is set to be released 15 July 2022.
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