The aftermath of the highly publicized defamation trial between Amber Heard and her ex-husband Johnny Depp saw Heard stepping away from the intense glare of public scrutiny. Following the tumultuous legal battle that captivated global audiences, many are left wondering: Where Is Amber Heard Now? This article delves into Amber Heard’s life after the trial, exploring her relocation, family life, career endeavors, and her journey to rebuild away from the spotlight.
After filing for divorce from Johnny Depp in May 2016 and subsequently obtaining a restraining order alleging verbal and physical abuse, Heard’s personal life became increasingly public. While Depp denied these allegations and they reached a divorce settlement in 2017, the legal saga was far from over.
In 2019, Depp initiated a defamation lawsuit against Heard following her 2018 op-ed in The Washington Post, where she identified as “a public figure representing domestic abuse” without naming Depp directly. The ensuing six-week trial in 2022 exposed deeply personal details of their relationship, divorce, and finances, significantly impacting both their lives and careers. The verdict ultimately favored Depp, who won all three defamation claims, while Heard won one of her counterclaims.
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Johnny Depp testifying during the defamation trial against Amber Heard in Fairfax County Circuit Courthouse, Virginia, highlighting the intense legal proceedings.
In the wake of the verdict, Amber Heard expressed profound disappointment, stating the evidence presented was insufficient against her ex-husband’s influence. Subsequently, Heard, now 38, sought refuge from the public eye and relocated to Spain with her daughter, seeking privacy and a fresh start after the draining trial.
Embracing a New Chapter in Madrid, Spain
Seeking solace and anonymity, Amber Heard made a significant move to Spain with her daughter in 2023. Leaving behind her home in Yucca Valley, California, which she sold for $1.1 million, Heard chose Europe as her new base. Sources close to Heard revealed to PEOPLE that she felt overwhelmed by the “chaos” in the United States and desired a clean slate. Initially renting a place in Mallorca, Spain, where she reportedly used the pseudonym Martha Jane Cannary, Heard eventually settled down in Madrid.
Madrid offers Heard the privacy she craves, allowing her to focus on motherhood away from the constant public attention. An insider shared with PEOPLE in November 2022 that Heard is relishing the opportunity to “just be a mom,” dedicating her days to her daughter. They enjoy simple pleasures like strolling around the city, visiting parks, and cherishing family moments. Fluent in Spanish, Heard has seemingly embraced her new life in Spain, expressing her love for the country and her intention to stay in a TikTok video from May 2023.
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Amber Heard pictured in Madrid, Spain, after settling her payment to Johnny Depp, signaling her new life and residence in the country.
Balancing Motherhood and Career Aspirations
Despite the personal turmoil, Amber Heard remains committed to her acting career. She reprised her role as Queen Mera in Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom, released in December 2023. During the defamation trial, Heard testified that she had “fought really hard” to maintain her role in the sequel, although she acknowledged her part was reduced due to the controversy. Her agent suggested the reduced role was attributed to a perceived lack of chemistry with Jason Momoa, while DC Films president denied Heard’s claims, stating the sequel’s direction was always intended to be more of a “buddy comedy”. Ultimately, despite petitions and public pressure, producers affirmed their decision to keep Heard in the film, prioritizing what was best for the movie’s creative vision.
Beyond Aquaman, Heard is actively pursuing other projects. In June 2023, she attended the Taormina Film Festival in Italy to promote her independent film, In the Fire. In this film, Heard portrays Grace, an American psychiatrist in 1899 Colombia, tasked with treating a young boy believed to be possessed. Heard described In the Fire as a “beautiful movie about the almost supernatural effect and force of love,” highlighting themes of love’s boundless nature and power. Colleagues on set praised Heard’s resilience and strength, with director Conor Allyn predicting a “bright future” for her in film.
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Amber Heard as Mera in Aquaman, demonstrating her continued presence in major film franchises despite personal controversies.
In May 2023, Heard confirmed to reporters her involvement in upcoming movie projects, signaling her intent to continue working in the film industry. She expressed a desire to balance roles in both blockbuster productions and independent films, viewing success as an actor’s ability to navigate both realms.
Moving Forward: Settlement and New Beginnings
In December 2022, Amber Heard made the “very difficult decision” to settle the defamation case appeal with Johnny Depp. While the initial verdict required her to pay over $10 million, the settlement reduced this to $1 million. Depp pledged to donate the settlement money to various charities, and Heard’s payment was finalized in June 2023.
The settlement marked a significant step for Heard in moving past the legal battles and focusing on her future. Sources indicate that Heard is determined to put the trauma of the trial behind her and is now in a better place, emotionally and mentally. She is reportedly excited about working and filming again, channeling “new energy” into aspects of her life she cherishes. Her public sighting jogging in Madrid in early April 2024 further suggests a focus on well-being and a return to normalcy.
Adding to her personal joy, in December 2024, a representative confirmed that Amber Heard is expecting her second child. Described as “delighted,” Heard and her family are embracing this new chapter.
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Amber Heard at the Taormina Film Festival, promoting “In The Fire”, marking her return to public events and career engagements post-trial.
In conclusion, Amber Heard is currently living in Madrid, Spain, where she is prioritizing raising her daughter and rebuilding her life away from the intense media attention that surrounded the defamation trial. While embracing motherhood and a more private life, she is also actively pursuing her acting career, with roles in both major films and independent projects. Having settled the legal dispute with Johnny Depp, Amber Heard appears to be focused on healing, moving forward, and shaping a new chapter in her personal and professional journey.
