At this point, Johnny is the only party with a chance to fully present his case and testimony. During that time, he’s presented some relatively damning evidence against his former partner and co-star. Combined with some strange behavior from her in court, as well as some strange behavior from her lawyers, this has been a damaging time for Heard, currently best known for her role in Aquaman, when it comes to her reputation and public image.
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Entering the trial, Heard was represented by Stephanie Cutter-founded East Coast-based PR company Precision Strategies. Recent reports, however, confirmed by NBC News, say that the actress has since dropped her firm and started using Shane Communications, a company based in New York and Los Angeles that has experience with people in Hollywood. Sources close to the situation say that Heard left her previous company because she was very unhappy with the current coverage of the case against her, as much of the media and public seems to favor Depp.
They’re in court right now because Depp has filed a defamation claim against Heard in regard to a 2018 Washington Post op-ed she wrote where she discusses her experience as a domestic violence survivor in the public eye. Though she doesn’t mention Depp in name, there are a number of strong clues with regard to timelines that would easily lead people to him. Depp has always denied any claims of abuse and instead claims that he was actually the abused partner in the relationship. He cites that this article lost him his career, including a role in the next Pirates of the Caribbean film, and he is suing her for $50 million. Heard is countersuing for $100 million.
Public support for Depp began well before this trial started, as recordings of Heard seemingly admitting to hitting him went viral on social media. Since the trial has started, these recordings are back in the public eye and more information about their relationship has come out. Heard has also been called out for her behavior in court, making strange faces, and appearing to copy Depp’s wardrobe. Her lawyers have been making headlines as well for some strange behavior, including one lawyer objecting to his own question.
Though the court of public opinion is on Depp’s side currently, Heard hasn’t had a chance to state her case as of yet and things could easily change based on what’s presented. It’s expected that she will take the stand this week, with witnesses to testify on her behalf to follow.
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Source: NBC News
