Actor Johnny Depp's role as Gellert Grindelwald in the Fantastic Beasts series has become increasingly controversial. Now it appears the actor may not appear in Fantastic Beasts 3.

Blast reports a source close to Depp claims Warner Bros. hasn't approached him about continuing to play Grindelwald in the series. The actor reportedly has a contract that extends through all five planned films in the series. However, it's up to the studio to decide if it wants to bring him back.

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Depp featured prominently in the second film. However, his continued role garnered controversy following accusations of domestic abuse by his ex-wife Amber Heard. Heard has claimed Depp was physically abusive during their relationship. Depp has refuted such claims and is currently pursuing a $50 million defamation lawsuit. There have been previous reports Warner Bros. is worried about the actor's continued presence in the series. Series creator J.K. Rowling has previously defending casting Depp as Grindelwald.

Depp has previously said he'll return to the series, and there's no indication at this time that Warner Bros. doesn't intend to approach him to reprise his role. Until an official announcement is made as the contrary, it's still best to assume he will indeed appear in the film.

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David Yates is still expected to direct Fantastic Beasts 3, and Harry Potter creator J. K. Rowling is writing the script. The release date for the film was recently delayed until Nov. 12 2021.