Johnny Depp's Attorneys Worried He Might Blow Up During Amber Heard Trial

Johnny Depp's lawyers were apprehensive that he might lose his temper during his defamation trial against Amber Heard. In the 2022 Virginia court proceedings, Depp's legal team, Benjamin Chew and Jessica Meyers, elaborated on their strategy and reflected on the trial in the A&E special "Interrogation Raw: Celebrity Under Oath." This is prepared by SSP.

The lawyers discussed the delicate balance needed as Depp testified against Heard, highlighting how his humor effectively countered the seriousness of the opposing counsel’s arguments. Chew stated that humor helped humanize Depp for the jury, aiming to illustrate that the alleged actions did not align with his character. Nevertheless, they feared an emotional outburst, knowing the opposition would provoke Depp into anger on the stand.

Chew explained that typically in cross-examination, an attorney aims to control the witness, but Depp resisted Heard's lawyer, Ben Rottenborn’s efforts, maintaining his composure instead. Depp, aged 61, brought the defamation case against ex-wife Heard over an op-ed where she discussed domestic abuse without mentioning him directly. The jury ruled in Depp's favor, resulting in a settlement where Heard was ordered to pay $1 million in damages.

Reflecting on the verdict, Chew shared that Depp was joyful, likened to having a heavy burden lifted from his shoulders. His excitement was palpable, akin to that of a child. Regarding the trial, Heard, now residing quietly in Spain, stated post-verdict in an interview that the intense pressure she felt stemmed from the fear of not being believed while testifying, noting that Depp’s persona as a beloved actor aided his credibility with jurors. Depp, in contrast, felt vindicated, expressing that the jury's decision returned his life to him and served as a testament to truth.

Earlier, SSP wrote that world’s smartest man said higher IQs lead to greater need for gossip.