Jack Sparrow chocolates and 'Mega Pint' mugs: How Johnny Depp-Amber Heard trial spurred grotesque market
The infamous Johnny Depp v Amber Heard defamation lawsuit has taken over several social media platforms since it started in mid April 2022. Just as we thought this could not go beyond viral moments, audios, fan theories, parodies, another bizzare outcome is a thriving souvenir industry online.
From memes and jokes, now keepsakes including cutlery and stationery in the 'Pirates of the Caribbeans' theme are being sold online by small businesses.
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Depp is suing his ex-wife, Heard for $50 million for defamation in regards to an op-ed she wrote in The Washington Post about domestic abuse in 2018. Though she did not name any specific individual, Johnny lost certain commendable opportunities. Heard, on the other hand, is counter suing for $100 million for damages. The trial has been adjourned for this week but it will resume in the same courtroom in Fairfax, Virginia on Monday, May 16. The proceedings are live streamed and millions of viewers watch it globally and have been sharing their reactions in real-time on social media platforms.
Viral moments and statements from the trial have become trending audios. Moreover, these viral moments have become an inspiration for certain creators and artists to develop themed souvenirs, mostly in support of Depp. The cottage industry is thriving, thanks to craft seller platforms like Etsy. On searching for 'Johnny Depp trial' on Etsy, thousands of results come up. These include sloganed sweatshirts, cups and mugs, wine glasses, and even art prints.
One viral moment from the courtroom when Depp was interrupted because it was grounds for hearsay, one seller offered a "Hearsay Tavern Shirt." Another iconic Johnny Depp quote was seen on a shirt that is being sold by a seller which reads, "Isn't Happy Hour Anytime?"
Recalling yet another iconic moment of the "mega pint of wine", several sellers have used the phrase and created sloganed drinking ware. Birthday cards, chocolate bars, stickers, and several other goodies are being offered.
A small business owner on Instagram is printing dollars ever since she started selling homemade hampers of Depp/Heard trial related products. She said, "As you can probably tell...I've been glued to the Johnny Depp Case while making my orders. So I've made a whole Gift Package by hand and the winner will get it delivered to their door. If you've been keeping up with the case or seen snippets of it, then this giftset will make sense to you." She shared the hamper includes "A Large Captain Jack Sparrow Luxury Irish Milk Chocolate Bars. An 'Objection Hearsay' Large Luxury Irish Milk Chocolate Bar. A 'Never Fear Truth' Large Luxury Irish Milk Chocolate Bar. (This title is the name of one of Johnny Depp's art projects.). A 'You Rise, You Fall' Print. A 'Mega Pint' Print. A Mega Pint Glass. A Mega Pint Mug."
