Actor Johnny Depp will no longer be portraying the dark wizard Gellert Grindelwald for the 'Fantastic Beasts' franchise, the actor said on Friday (local time). According to Variety, Depp's exit from the spinoff of 'Harry Potter' series comes days after he lost his libel case against The Sun, a British tabloid that published an article in 2018 alleging he was a "wife beater." The 'Pirates of the Caribbean,' actor took to Instagram and shared a statement in the regard, announcing that he has been asked to "resign" by Warner Bros from the 'Fantastic Beats' franchise.

"I wish to let you know that I have been asked to resign by Warner Bros. from my role as Grindelwald in 'Fantastic Beasts' and I have respected and agreed to that request," his statement on Instagram read. He also went on to thank his fans for their "support and loyalty" during the testing times. "I'd like to thank everybody who has gifted me with their support and loyalty. I have been humbled and moved by your many messages of love and concern, particularly over the last few days," he said.