Would Johnny Depp Be a Perfect Fit for Sirius Black?

Johnny Depp would undoubtedly make an incredible choice for the character of Sirius Black in the Harry Potter series. His versatile acting skills and raw, dynamic presence would breathe new life into a role that many have considered.

An Ideal Fit for the Role

Back in the days of 21 Jump Street, Johnny Depp’s look would have been perfectly aligned with the character’s perception from the books. Before Sirius Black was fully revealed, readers envisioned a character who was both rugged and compellingly tattooed, qualities that Depp embodies magnificently. Moreover, his distinctive and captivating voice adds a unique layer to the character.

However, there were practical reasons he wasn't initially considered for the role. The filmmakers had a preference for exclusively British actors, which disqualified both Robin Williams and Johnny Depp, despite their American heritage. Although Depp is now 58, his stellar performances in characters like Gellert Grindelwald demonstrate that he still possesses the charisma and physicality to captivate audiences. His unique interpretation of Grindelwald showcases his range as an actor and his ability to command the screen despite his age.

Why Johnny Might Be Too Old Now

Despite his suitability, Johnny Depp is now too old to play the physically demanding role of Sirius Black, especially considering the actor’s age and potential health. However, this could change in the future if there were to be a complete remake of the Harry Potter series. If they were to depict the Marauders in their younger years, Depp could still be a fantastic choice. The young actors who played Harry, Ron, and Hermione would be in their mid to late twenties, making Depp, at 58, more in line with the age range for Sirius.

Other Potential Actors

If Johnny Depp was not an option, other actors could still bring the character to life. Ben Barnes, known for portraying Dorian Gray in the film, has often been a fan favorite for the role of Sirius Black. Barnes, though, is now 40, making him a bit too old for the original Marauders. However, if a remake were to be done, he could still play a younger version of Sirius, delighting fans with his portrayal.

Tom Hiddleston, who turned 41 a couple of days ago on February 9, 2022, could also be a fun choice. He’s already proven his ability to play complex, multifaceted characters. Although he is famous for playing Loki, his chameleonic talent would make him a great fit as Sirius Black. His potential to bring out the complexity and depth of the character would be a remarkable addition to the series.

Physical and Character Suitability

While Johnny Depp would look skinny and handsome in a raddled fatal sort of way, Sirius Black is meant to be notably tall and visibly taller than Professor Snape. Johnny Depp, standing at 5'8", would not perfectly match the height expectation for the character. However, his portrayal of Gellert Grindelwald shows his ability to convey the character’s mental and emotional turmoil, similar to Sirius.

In conclusion, despite his age and height, Johnny Depp would be a fantastic choice for Sirius Black due to his talent, charisma, and ability to bring complex characters to life. Whether it's a complete remake of the Harry Potter series or focusing on the young Marauders, Johnny Depp's performance would be a highlight. This hypothesis, while it might not be realized, certainly showcases the versatility and impact of his acting skills.