In a major relief to Hollywood star Johnny Depp, a jury awarded him more than $10 million, in his libel lawsuit against ex-wife Amber Heard on Wednesday, confirming his claim that Heard concocted claims that she was abused by Depp before and during their brief marriage.
“My life was restored by the jury. I’m genuinely humbled “Depp remarked after the verdict.
“The purpose of pursuing this lawsuit from the outset was to uncover the truth, regardless of the outcome,” he stated.
The jury also ruled in favour of Heard, who claimed Depp’s lawyer defamed her by calling her assault allegations a fake. She was granted $2 million in damages by the jury.
The judgments brought to a close a public trial that Depp had believed would help him reclaim his reputation, but instead turned into a spectacle of a savage marriage. Throughout the trial, Depp’s supporters waited in line overnight for coveted courtroom seats. Those who were unable to enter the theatre gathered on the street to celebrate Depp and jeer Heard whenever they appeared outside.
Heard, who remained impassive in the courtroom as the decision was pronounced, expressed his sadness.
