Updates on Johnny Depp playing lead role in Marvel's 'Doctor Strange' movie

Rumors swirled yesterday that Johnny Depp was in talks with Marvel Studios to play the lead role of Steven Strange in a Doctor Strange movie, a move that would have been a slam dunk for the studio. But conflicting reports have emerged since then that have made the entire situation much murkier.

Latino Review, which more or less has a solid reputation with Marvel news in particular, first posted that Depp had met with Marvel to star in the film. Variety then followed that up with a report that seemingly confirmed Latino Review's initial scoop, as the site said Depp was in "early talks" for the role. But Variety then completely amended the story, without an update notice or any accompanying explanation, to say that Depp's involvement was merely a rumor at the time.

Deadline then chimed in with the following piece of news:

"I'm told by Marvel moles there is really nothing to this rumor about Johnny Depp playing Steven Strange in Dr. Strange for Marvel Studios. The story's being bannered by Variety online, but don't dress for it. I'm told that Depp was approached eons ago, and it never went anywhere."

And finally, we have this tweet from Borys Kit, a writer for The Hollywood Reporter:

Doc Strange now: They don't have a script and are looking for writers to completely start over.

— Borys Kit (@Borys_Kit) January 14, 2014

So what exactly happened here? Well, it's possible that Depp is still in the mix, as Marvel has been less than honest about its casting news in the past. So have the actors, for that matter. Look at how fervently Paul Rudd denied his involvement with Ant-Man only for Marvel to name him as the star shortly thereafter.

It's possible that Depp really isn't a candidate and the rumors are merely rumors, or maybe Depp is still negotiating with the studio and those involved don't want to confirm anything yet.

What do you make of all this, fans? Let us know in the comments below.