Thu Oct 23 18:00:00 UTC 2025: Summary:

Paramount, under new leadership following the Skydance merger, is finalizing a deal for a new adaptation of “A Christmas Carol” titled “Ebenezer.” Johnny Depp is set to star as Scrooge, with Ti West directing. Andrea Riseborough is also cast. The film, penned by Nathaniel Halpern and produced by Emma Watts, is slated for release on November 13, 2026. This marks Depp’s largest role since his 2022 legal victory and a step into mainstream filmmaking for horror director Ti West. This is the second Christmas Carol adaptation announced, with Warner Bros. developing their own starring Willem Dafoe.

News Article:

Johnny Depp to Star as Scrooge in New “Christmas Carol” Adaptation from Paramount, Directed by Ti West

HOLLYWOOD, CA – Paramount Pictures is diving headfirst into the holiday season with a bold new adaptation of Charles Dickens’ classic, “A Christmas Carol,” titled “Ebenezer.” The studio, reportedly invigorated by the recent Skydance merger, is in final negotiations to bring the project to life, with Johnny Depp slated to star as the infamous Ebenezer Scrooge. Ti West, known for his recent horror trilogy, is set to direct.

Andrea Riseborough has also joined the cast, and Paramount has penciled in a release date of November 13, 2026. The script is being penned by Nathaniel Halpern, with Emma Watts producing.

This adaptation promises a “thrilling ghost story set in Dickens’ London,” following Scrooge’s supernatural journey to confront his past, present, and future in a desperate bid for redemption.

The casting of Depp marks a significant return to major roles for the actor following his high-profile 2022 defamation trial. He recently wrapped production on “Day Drinker,” but “Ebenezer” is poised to be his most prominent project in years, allowing him to showcase his talent for portraying eccentric and transformative characters.

For West, this project signifies a move into the mainstream after his critically acclaimed horror run with A24. Taking on “A Christmas Carol” allows him to utilize his talent for crafting atmospheric and chilling narratives within a familiar and beloved framework.

“Ebenezer” will be executive produced by Stephen Deuters and Jason Forman. Depp is represented by Range Media Partners, Riseborough by CAA, Independent Talent Group and Untitled, and West by CAA and LBI Entertainment.

This announcement comes on the heels of Warner Bros. also developing their own “Christmas Carol” adaptation with Robert Eggers directing and Willem Dafoe playing Scrooge, setting the stage for a spectral showdown at the box office in the coming years.

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