The trial involved testimony relating to intimately personal information, about Depp, Heard and their stormy relationship.  With these details published to the world, and obvious animosity remaining between the pair, it’s understandable that many spectators think that this legal battle was about the couple’s divorce.  

But Depp and Heard were actually divorced six years ago, in May 2016. To understand the background of this most recent libel case (after Depp lost a previous libel case in the UK in 2020) – let’s take a closer look at this most high-profile of Hollywood divorces.  

The marriage

Depp and Heard married after meeting on the set of the 2011 film Rum Diary, in which they both starred. They dated for a few years, just after Depp separated from his long-term partner Vanessa Paradis and Heard split up with girlfriend of four years Tasya van Ree.  

Heard was then spotted wearing a huge engagement ring in 2014. The following year, the pair tied the knot in a private ceremony at their home in Los Angeles. They jetted off to Depp’s private island in the Bahamas for a second wedding celebration with close family and friends. People published photos showing the lovestruck couple under a flower-strewn arch on a windswept Bahamian beach.

The divorce

After just over a year of marriage, it was reported that Amber Heard had filed for divorce from Depp. Following this announcement in the press were photos of Heard, which appeared to show the actress with bruises on her face.  

Just a few days after the divorce filing, Heard alleged that the Pirates of the Caribbean actor had physically abused her during the marriage. She obtained a temporary restraining order against Depp.  

The court case

There was no drawn-out court case for the Depp-Heard divorce, as there has been for the two libel trials. There was a deposition in summer 2016 during which Heard testified under oath about the alleged domestic violence by Depp.  

However, she later withdrew her request for a domestic violence restraining order and accepted a settlement of $7 million. This settlement was reportedly donated to charity. The Aquaman actress also withdrew a request for spousal support of $50,000 a month.  

Once all legal and financial matters were decided, the pair released a joint statement which said:
"Our relationship was intensely passionate and at times volatile, but always bound by love. Neither party has made false accusations for financial gain."

"There was never any intent of physical or emotional harm."

The divorce was finalised in 2017. In addition to the settlement, Heard kept the couple’s dogs. Depp kept possession of all other property and assets, including his private island in the Bahamas and extensive collection of classic motorcycles and cars.  

It was also reported at the time that the settlement included a non-disparagement clause. This was designed to prevent either party from publicly saying anything negative about the other or the relationship, which could be one of the starting points for the subsequent libel trials.   

Need help with divorce? Get in touch with Wirral divorce solicitor Tracey Miller Family Law for practical, honest advice and support with all aspects of divorce. We’re in your corner.