Depp was accused of wife abuse - now the defamation trial begins

- For almost 30 years, Mr. Depp has had a reputation for being one of the most talented actors in Hollywood.

But today, his name is linked to a lie, a false statement from his ex-wife, said Johnny Depp's lawyer Benjamin Chew.

Johnny Depp, 58, has sued his ex-wife for 50 million dollars and accused her of libel after a column she wrote in 2018 in which she described herself as "a public figure who has experienced violence in a close relationship".

The ex-wife, in turn, is demanding $ 100 million for the "extensive physical violence and abuse" that Johnny Depp subjected her to.

She did not mention Depp's name in the article published in the Washington Post.

But according to his lawyers, his career was over with the publication.

"Will show who he is"

However, the ex-wife's lawyers believe that there is clear evidence that Johnny Depp has been violent towards her in their relationship and that "the trial will show the jury who the real Johnny Depp is".

"Behind the red carpet, behind the fame, behind the money, behind the pirate costumes, you will see who that man really is," said lawyer Ben Rottenborn.

Several known witnesses

During the trial in Fairfax, which is expected to last for several weeks, several well-known names will be called as witnesses.

Tea party founder Elon Musk, who previously had a relationship with his ex-wife, will testify in her favor.

So will actress James Franco, whom she previously entrusted herself with.

Johnny Depp's side has called the British actor Paul Bettany, who has called Depp the "kindest, gentlest man he knows".