LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: Amidst mounting controversies surrounding Amber Heard, the new trailer for 'Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom' has made a surprising omission—Amber Heard's character, Mera, is conspicuously absent.
This follows speculation that her role in the film was significantly reduced due to the fallout from her legal battles and the negative attention they've garnered, as per Daily Mail.
Director James Wan says 'Aquaman' sequel was never meant to focus on Amber Heard's character
Heard's fleeting appearance as Mera in the initial trailer released in September hinted at a limited role. However, in the latest teaser for the film, set to hit screens on December 20, 2023, her character is nowhere to be found at all.
The absence of Heard's character is stark in the new trailer, which primarily focuses on Jason Momoa's Aquaman, now juggling fatherhood alongside his responsibilities as the King of Atlantis. Notably, Nicole Kidman, reprising her role as Atlanna, appears to take on a more prominent role in the movie's action sequences.
Mera, portrayed by Heard, is the daughter of King Nereus, possessing telepathic abilities to manipulate water and communicate with Atlanteans. She's Aquaman's wife in the storyline.
Director James Wan has addressed the ongoing speculations about Heard's reduced presence in the sequel, asserting that the focus was never intended to heavily feature her character, Mera.
Wan clarified that the first film primarily centered on Aquaman and Mera's journey, while the sequel was always designed to delve into the relationship between Aquaman and Orm.
Amber Heard's turbulent 'Aquaman' saga
Heard's involvement in the sequel has been tumultuous, marked by legal battles, alleged conflicts on set, and claims of a diminished role.
Reports suggest that therapy notes brought to light in December 2021, involving Heard's discussions about the filming environment and her interactions with Wan, had painted a picture of discord and alleged mistreatment, Variety reported.
The bombshell therapy documents allege unsettling incidents on set, including claims that Momoa intentionally dressed like Johnny Depp, Heard's ex-husband, and advocated for her dismissal from the movie.
Representatives for Momoa have declined to comment on these allegations, while a spokesperson from DC Studios has maintained that Momoa maintained professionalism throughout the filming process.
While accusations and counter-claims persist, reports emerged indicating that Heard's on-screen chemistry with Momoa was allegedly lacking, prompting discussions of her removal from the film. However, Elon Musk, Heard's former partner, intervened to secure her role in the sequel after discussions of her potential dismissal.
Johnny Depp's fans express delight at Amber Heard's absence in trailer for 'Aquaman 2'
The absence of Heard from the latest trailer for 'Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom' has garnered reactions, particularly from Depp's supporters.
Comments across social media reflect a sense of satisfaction and approval at Heard's omission, with some users expressing delight at her reduced presence in the promotional material.
"Dear, sweet karma!" remarked one user on X. "Joy to the world," expressed another user.
A third user firmly stated, "She shouldn’t be left in the movie at all." Expressing a similar stance, someone mentioned, "Cut from a trailer… Not the movie. Unfortunately."
"And nothing of value was lost," quipped a fifth user.
