After six weeks of testimony in the defamation trial between Pirates of the Caribbean star Johnny Depp and his ex-wife, Aquaman 2 star Amber Heard, the jury has voted in favor of Johnny Depp, deciding that Amber Heard calling her ex a sexual abuser in 2018 Washington Post op-ed was defamation, as reported by TMZ.
The jury was presented the closing arguments from both Johnny and Amber’s legal teams on Friday and was dismissed to begin deliberations that same afternoon.
The trial was filled with emotional testimony, domestic and sexual abuse allegations and a long list of witnesses brought in by both Johnny and Amber’s legal teams.
The breakdown consists of $10 million in compensatory damages and $5 million in punitive damages in Johnny's defamation suit.
Amber has released a statement on social media following her losing verdict, in which she indicates she is "heartbroken" and "disappointed" at what this verdict will mean for other women.
"I'm even more disappointed with what this verdict means for other women," she continued.
"It sets back the idea that violence against women is to be taken seriously."
"I'm sad I lost this case," she added. "But I'm sadder still that I seem to have lost the right I thought I had as an American — to speak freely and openly."
Instead, the actor will be watching live from the UK, as per a source close to the actor, "due to a previously scheduled work commitment made before the trial."
"Six years ago, my life, the life of my children, the lives of those closest to me, and also, the lives of the people who for many, many years have supported and believed in me were forever changed. All in the blink of an eye," the statement began.
"From the very beginning, the goal of bringing this case was to reveal the truth, regardless of the outcome," he continued.
The actor added that "the jury gave me my life back. I am truly humbled."
Stay tuned for updates on what happens next.
If you or someone you know is a survivor of domestic abuse, please visit the resources found here.
