Did Johnny Depp develop an unlikely bromance with the Saudi crown prince?

Saudi Arabia has made waves in its tourism industry after hiring legendary footballer Lionel Messi, and now the country is looking to team up with Hollywood icon Johnny Depp as its tourism ambassador. Meanwhile, a report in Vanity Fair suggests a unique “bromance” is blooming between Depp and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, also known as MBS. Sources close to Depp say the pair’s friendship has gained momentum and Depp is exploring ways to contribute culturally to Saudi Arabia.

While Depp values ​​his friendship with Mohammed bin Salman and asks for nothing in return, the actor’s team and the Saudi government are still in discussions over an annual seven-figure deal. The proposal involves Depp attending events and filming in Saudi Arabia, a move aimed at putting the country on the entertainment map. Depp recently attended the Red Sea Film Festival, marking the first step in their collaboration.

A source close to the Pirates of the Caribbean star revealed, “They formed a real connection. It shocked a lot of people who knew him, but that’s what happened. From that point on, Depp and MBS became a real friend.”

Johnny Depp had earlier said, “While I admit I was a little naïve about what was happening in the region at first, I have since experienced firsthand the cultural revolution taking place there – emerging young storytellers A thriving film infrastructure and newfound innovative curiosity that radiates fresh ideas and artwork. I had the opportunity to meet people from different parts of the region who were very enthusiastic about sharing their culture, traditions and stories with me. “

There are reports that Saudi Arabia is investing hundreds of billions of dollars in various sectors, including mining, real estate, sports and tourism, under Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s Vision 2030 plan, with a particular focus on the entertainment industry. The ambitious initiative aims to create new revenue streams for the country. The crown prince is known for his interest in video games and electronic dance music, and has even invested $38 billion in esports and gaming. In addition, Saudi Arabia hosts Soundstorm, the largest music festival in the Middle East, every December.

Interestingly, the Red Sea Film Foundation is backing Johnny Depp’s upcoming directorial project Modi, a biopic exploring the life of Italian artist Amedeo Modigliani, also starring Al ·Pacino. Previously, the festival’s finance team provided post-production financing for Depp’s period drama “Jeanne Dubary,” which premiered at the Cannes Film Festival.