Paramount Pictures has officially shattered the internet with a massive holiday movie announcement. The studio confirmed that Johnny Depp will return to the big screen as the tortured Ebenezer Scrooge in a new film titled Ebenezer. Horror visionary Ti West is set to direct this dark retelling of the Charles Dickens classic. The project also features a star-studded ensemble cast including Rupert Grint and Daisy Ridley.
A Star Studded Lineup Joins the Holiday Horror
The casting choices for this adaptation have already generated massive buzz across social media platforms. Paramount revealed a mix of veteran actors and rising stars to bring this Victorian ghost story to life.
Fans are particularly excited to see Rupert Grint take on the role of Bob Cratchit. Grint is best known for his time as Ron Weasley in the Harry Potter series. He recently showed his range in the psychological horror series Servant. This makes him a perfect fit for a scary Christmas tale.
Confirmed Cast Members:
- Johnny Depp as Ebenezer Scrooge
- Rupert Grint as Bob Cratchit
- Daisy Ridley (Star Wars) in a lead supporting role
- Sam Claflin (The Hunger Games)
- Charlie Murphy (Peaky Blinders)
- Arthur Conti (Beetlejuice Beetlejuice)
- Ellie Bamber (Willow)
Daisy Ridley joins the production fresh off her recent dramatic projects. Her addition suggests the film will rely heavily on strong character performances rather than just jump scares. Sam Claflin and Charlie Murphy add serious dramatic weight to the supporting cast.
Johnny Depp Ebenezer Scrooge movie poster art dark victorian style
Ti West Brings a Terrifying Vision to London
This is not going to be your typical family friendly version of A Christmas Carol. Paramount has hired Ti West to helm the project. West is currently one of the most respected names in the horror genre. He famously directed the X trilogy including the slasher hit Pearl and the 80s thriller MaXXXine.
West is known for building slow dread and using unique visual styles. He will be working from a script adapted by Nathanial Helpern. Helpern previously wrote for the visually stunning sci-fi series Tales From the Loop.
“This adaptation focuses on a thriller vibe while blending classic Dickensian themes with modern horror elements.”
The story will still follow Scrooge on his supernatural journey. He must confront the ghosts of Christmas Past, Present and Yet to Come. However, insiders suggest the “ghosts” will be far more frightening than previous versions. The combination of West’s direction and Depp’s acting style promises a movie that is both emotional and genuinely scary.
Production Details and Release Date
Paramount has set a firm release date to capture the holiday crowd. The movie will hit theaters globally on November 13, 2026.
This release window gives the film plenty of time to dominate the box office before December. The production team has already started filming on location in London. They are working hard to recreate the foggy and grim streets of Victorian England.
The set design aims to capture the eerie spirit world described in the original book. Practical effects will likely be used alongside CGI to create the ghosts. This grounded approach fits perfectly with the directing style of Ti West.
Depp Returns to His Dark Fantasy Roots
The biggest talking point is undoubtedly the return of Johnny Depp. The actor has spent decades playing eccentric and misunderstood characters. His roles in Sweeney Todd and Sleepy Hollow prove he can handle dark Victorian settings with ease.
Johnny Depp brings a signature intensity to the role that promises to make this version of Scrooge unforgettable.
Critics and fans are eager to see his chemistry with the younger cast members. This role offers Depp a chance to explore a character who seeks redemption. It mirrors the emotional depth required for the film’s “one night to change everything” premise.
The movie is shaping up to be a unique event in cinema history. It blends the nostalgia of a classic story with the tension of a modern thriller. Fans of horror, drama and Johnny Depp have a lot to look forward to in 2026.
We want to hear your thoughts on this casting news. Do you think Johnny Depp is the right choice for Scrooge? Let us know in the comments below. If you are excited, share this news on X and Instagram using the trending hashtag #DeppScrooge.