Johnny Depp’s return to the big screen was greeted with acclaim at the Cannes Film Festival. The charismatic actor stole the show with a remarkable performance in Jeanne du Barry, which premiered there this week. It’s unclear whether his recent success will lead to a Hollywood comeback, but fans are optimistic.

Depp, who won a highly-publicized defamation trial against Heard, starred in the French-language period drama Jeanne du Barry, written and directed by Maïwenn. Jeanne du Barry recently premiered at the Cannes Film Festival where the audience erupted in applause for Depp’s performance as King Louis XV. 

Variety reports that Depp held back tears as he received a standing ovation after Jeanne du Barry’s premiere; the actor was surprised by the response and acknowledged the audience by waving from the balcony while Maïwenn broke down into tears.

The overwhelmingly incredible response to Depp’s latest performance is sure to create an expectation that this moment will spark his embattled Hollywood comeback. It’s important to note that Jeanne du Barry is a French film premiering at the Cannes Film Festival, which is held in France, so the film’s home-field advantage likely contributed to its warm reception. 

Depp is also a beloved figure within the country since he had a 14-year romantic relationship with the famous French actress and singer Vanessa Paradis. Upon his arrival at the festival, Depp was welcomed by thousands of supportive fans gathered outside.

Some wonder whether or not Depp will make a great comeback, but he does have a large fanbase and those who have stood by him after winning the defamation trial against former wife actress Amber Heard. Quite often Depp has been in the tabloids for many things. He is a highly unusual man but seems to have a sad clown inside of him in certain moments. 

Eagerly fans are awaiting his upcoming collaboration with actor Al Pacino as Johnny will be directing a Modigliani biopic. He anticipates taking on more acting roles and likely will continue to perform with his band Hollywood Vampires. The band’s name originated from a celebrity drinking club originally created by musician Alice Cooper back during the 1970’s. 

Johnny seemed to strike a chord with the audience upon this night and left them eagerly awaiting more from the talented actor. It seems he has returned, it is unknown how audiences around the world will respond to him after this performance.