Pirates of the Caribbean 6 is moving through another round of development, with Oscar-nominated screenwriter Krysty Wilson-Cairns in talks to write the latest version of the script. The writer, best known for 1917 and Last Night in Soho, is joining a project that has spent years cycling through different creative directions.
Margot Robbie remains tied to the version of the franchise that has been discussed since 2020, while Disney is also still exploring a way to bring Johnny Depp‘s Captain Jack Sparrow back. Producer Jerry Bruckheimer confirmed at D23 that conversations with Depp are continuing, although the actor’s involvement remains dependent on the screenplay.
The latest approach is expected to move the franchise beyond simply making another Jack Sparrow adventure. Robbie’s character would reportedly take the lead, with Sparrow potentially appearing in a supporting role as the series introduces a new generation of characters.
Krysty Wilson-Cairns Takes On The Latest Pirates Script
Wilson-Cairns is the newest writer to tackle the long-running project. Her work on 1917 earned her an Academy Award nomination for Best Original Screenplay, while Last Night in Soho reunited her with director Edgar Wright.
The latest screenplay is reportedly being shaped around Robbie’s potential character rather than Jack Sparrow as the sole protagonist. Insider reporting cited by Deadline indicates the continuation is intended to feel like an evolution of the franchise, with Sparrow serving in a secondary capacity rather than carrying the entire movie.
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Bruckheimer also addressed Depp’s possible return when he spoke to Deadline at D23.
“We’re talking with Johnny [Depp], we’re working on a screenplay, and hopefully we can get this done.”
The producer’s comments stop short of confirming Depp’s return. The actor has not been officially announced as part of the cast, and the screenplay still has to reach a stage where Disney and the other principal talent are ready to move forward.
The franchise has already gone through several attempts to get a sixth movie made. Dead Men Tell No Tales, released in 2017, remains the most recent installment and earned around $795.9 million worldwide, making it the lowest-grossing film in the five-movie series.
The wider franchise has still generated roughly $4.5 billion globally, making it one of Disney’s most valuable live-action properties. That commercial record explains the continued effort to find a story capable of restarting the series after such a long break.
The latest version appears to be trying to balance familiarity with a new direction. Robbie’s reported role would give Disney a fresh central character, while the possibility of Depp returning as Sparrow could preserve a connection to the original movies.
Whether Wilson-Cairns’ screenplay finally becomes the version that gets made remains unclear. The project is still looking for a green light, and Disney has yet to announce when production will begin.