On Wednesday evening, Johnny Depp collected his 14th People’s Choice Award in front of a star-studded crowd.
It was the first time Depp has attended a public event since his divorce from Amber Heard last year – and the allegations that he was physically abusive towards her.
Beating stiff competition in the form of Tom Hanks, Samuel L. Jackson and Tom Cruise, Depp took the Best Movie Icon Award – taking to the stage to thank his fans for standing by him.
“I came here for one reason tonight and one reason only,” Depp began. “I came here for you, the people, who through whatever good times or bad, have stood by me, trusted me. Thank you. You very, very graciously invited me here once again tonight. I appreciate that very much — you have no idea how much I appreciate it.”
The 53-year-old was accused by ex-wife Amber Heard, 30, of being physically abusive towards her during the course of their two year marriage.
As part of her testimony, Amber shared images of her supposed injuries, texts between her and Depp’s assistant, a friend’s account of calling 911 during one violent incident, and Amber’s testimony.
Now that the divorce is finalised (they reached an out of court settlement and released a joint statement,) Depp has burst back into the public eye.
Some viewers were less than pleased about this however, and accused the awards of validating Depp’s behaviour.
Carolyn Todd wrote for Refinery 29: “While Depp never says, “thank you for not believing my ex-wife’s accusations that I physically assaulted her on multiple occasions,” it’s implied that this what he means.”
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