Johnny Depp’s highly anticipated return to the Pirates of the Caribbean franchise just received a major update straight from the top. Producer Jerry Bruckheimer shared new details about the sequel’s progress and revealed a surprising creative direction for the series.

Johnny Depp’s Jack Sparrow comeback in Pirates of the Caribbean 6 looking very real

Producer Jerry Bruckheimer revealed at D23 that Johnny Depp’s return to the Pirates of the Caribbean series is actively moving forward, as Deadline reported. Bruckheimer told the outlet, “We’re talking with Johnny, we’re working on a screenplay, and hopefully we can get this done.” The update signals strong momentum for a sixth installment in the blockbuster Disney franchise.

However, reliable sources indicated the new film will take a different creative direction than previous entries. The sequel will reportedly center on Margot Robbie’s character as the lead protagonist. Captain Jack Sparrow will instead appear in a supporting role, marking an evolution for the series.

The most recent installment, Dead Men Tell No Tales, earned $795.9 million globally upon its 2017 release. That total made it the weakest performer across all five films. The franchise has collectively generated $4.5 billion at the worldwide box office to date.

Meanwhile, Bruckheimer also weighed in on Paramount’s planned departure from California during the conversation. David Ellison has reportedly proposed relocating the studio in response to a state antitrust case tied to its merger with Warner Bros Discovery. Bruckheimer pushed back against the idea, stating, “We want to keep ’em here.”

He elaborated on his concerns about the political dynamics surrounding the situation. Bruckheimer remarked, “It’s unfortunate that it’s got this kind of political circle around it, which is a shame.” He then added, “Hopefully they work it all out, they stay here, and the business gets healthier.” The producer has consistently supported Ellison’s broader ambitions, previously urging the industry at CinemaCon to trust Ellison’s pledge to produce 30 films per year through Paramount.