Johnny Depp trial - live: Amber Heard defamation case to resume Monday after week of shocking testimony

The trial for Johnny Depp’s defamation lawsuit against former wife, Amber Heard, has adjourned until Monday after a third day of testimony in Virginia.

On Thursday, witness Gina Deuters, a friend of Depp, had her testimony struck from the record and was dismissed after admitting she had seen clips of the trial online. Instead video evidence from Dr David Kipper, who treated the actor for addiction, was played.

Earlier, recorded depositions were shown from Heard’s former assistant Kate James, and the couple’s marriage counsellor Dr Laurel Anderson who detailed their “mutual abuse”.

Depp claims a 2018 article about domestic violence towards women, written by Heard, implied he was an abuser during their relationship. Although she did not name him, lawyers claim her allegations have made it difficult for the actor to land movie roles.

He is asking for $50million (£38.2m) in damages during the trial in Fairfax County’s district courthouse. Heard has filed a counterclaim against Depp for nuisance.

Depp has previously lost a defamation case in the UK againstThe Sun newspaper over the same article by Heard.

Key points

• Marriage counsellor describes ‘mutual abuse’ between Depp and Heard

• Johnny Depp’s friend ejected as witness as she admits watching clips of defamation trial

• In pictures: Thursday in court in the Depp v Heard trial

• Court shown plans of Depp and Heard’s extravagant five-home penthouse

• Depp’s tearful friend pleads for couple to ‘go heal’ at Amber Heard trial

Depp’s sister says family was ‘devastated’ with the marriage

02:30 , Oliver O'Connell

Johnny Depp’s sister says Amber Heard called him “old and fat” and that the actor’s family was “devastated” at his marriage to her.

Christi Dembrowski made the claims as she took the stand as the first witness in the multi-million dollar defamation trial in Virginia, in which Depp claims that a 2018 article on domestic violence she wrote for The Washington Post implied he was an abuser.

She told the court that while she had seen Ms Heard “be nice” to her brother, she had also seen her “be not nice” and gave details of one such confrontation.

Graeme Massie reports.

Johnny Depp’s sister says Amber Heard called him ‘old and fat’

ICYMI: Heard accuses Depp of sexual assault with liquor bottle

Monday 18 April 2022 00:30 , Oliver O'Connell

Explosive new allegations have been made by Amber Heard about her ex-husband, Johnny Depp, during the opening arguments of his $50m defamation trial.

Ms Heard’s attorney, Elaine Bredehoft, claimed that Mr Depp sexually assaulted Heard using a liquor bottle during a black-out drunk episode.

Mr Depp was visibly skeptical as Ms Bredehoft made the claims, and shook his head “no” after her comments.

Graig Graziosi reports.

Amber Heard accuses Johnny Depp of sexual assault with liquor bottle

Opening statement: Amber Heard called compulsive liar by Depp team

Sunday 17 April 2022 22:30 , Oliver O'Connell

The legal team representing Johnny Depp in the defamation case against his ex-wife Amber Heard has made their opening statements, with Mr Depp’s attorneys painting Ms Heard as a compulsive and chronic liar who used the allegations she made against the actor as a means to advance her own career.

They claimed she wanted to portray herself as a heroic survivor of abuse.

The attorneys also noted Mr Depp’s drug and alcohol use, but argued that a substance abuse problem does not prove that he ever hurt Ms Heard.

Graig Graziosi reports.

Johnny Depp to testify as lawyers claim Amber Heard is a ‘compulsive liar’

Amber Heard supporter barred from court

Sunday 17 April 2022 21:02

Eve Barlow, Amber Heard’s friend and supporter, has been banned from the courtroom for the remainder of the trial.

She was asked to leave the courtroom in an order by Judge Penney Azcarate.

Opening statement: Johnny Depp is ‘out to destroy’ Amber Heard, lawyer says

Sunday 17 April 2022 20:30 , Oliver O'Connell

Amber Heard‘s defence attorney claimed Johnny Depp would try to turn the defamation cause against his ex-wife into a “soap opera,” but warned that it was a distraction.

Ben Rottenborn, Heard’s lawyer, said the case was about her First Amendment rights to discuss her experiences, and argued that context matters and asked the jury to read the entire article she wrote for The Washington Post – which led to the lawsuit – and not just the parts highlighted by Depp.

He then read the article to the jury and asked why Depp did not sue The Washington Post as well as Heard, claiming he wanted to “ruin her life, to destroy her.”

Graig Graziosi reports.

Johnny Depp is ‘out to destroy’ Amber Heard, lawyer says in opening statement

Depp’s sister reveals their abusive mother called him ‘one eye’

Sunday 17 April 2022 18:30 , Oliver O'Connell

During her testimony, Christi Dembrowski told the court about the siblings’ early lives and growing up in Kentucky with an abusive mother described as “angry” and “high strung”.

She said her mother would hit them and their father, and called them names. She claimed her mother called Mr Depp “one-eye” because he wore an eyepatch to correct a lazy eye when he was a child.

Maanya Sachdeva reports.

Johnny Depp’s sister reveals their abusive mother used to call him ‘one eye’

Voices: I was Johnny Depp’s biggest fan as a teenager – but I’d never admit that now

Sunday 17 April 2022 16:30 , Oliver O'Connell

“I’m sure I’m not alone in having previously worshipped a now-problematic star – it seems as if all of our idols fall short eventually, although some in more controversial and damaging ways than others,” writes Harriet Williamson.

Opinion: I was Johnny Depp’s biggest fan as a teenager – but I’d never admit that now

Why are Johnny Depp and Amber Heard in court in Virginia?

Sunday 17 April 2022 14:30 , Oliver O'Connell

Here’s all the background you need for the trial:

Everything we know about Johnny Depp and Amber Heard’s defamation case

ICYMI: Depp smirks as court hears he’s apparently obsessed with Elon Musk

Sunday 17 April 2022 12:30 , Oliver O'Connell

Johnny Depp smirked in a Virginia courtroom when a lawyer for Amber Heard suggested that the Hollywood star was “obsessed” with Tesla CEO Elon Musk.

The billionaire tech entrepreneur has been listed as a possible witness by Ms Heard, along with Spider-Man actor James Franco, Paul Bettany and Ellen Barkin.

During the 2020 libel case between Ms Heard and Mr Depp, the actor’s lawyer claimed that Ms Heard had an affair with Mr Musk.

Johnny Depp smirks as court hears he’s obsessed with Elon Musk

Depp’s sister reveals their abusive mother called him ‘one eye’

Sunday 17 April 2022 10:30 , Oliver O'Connell

Johnny Depp’s $50m defamation trial against Amber Heard began with explosive opening arguments and the witness testimony of his sister on Tuesday (11 April).

Here’s what she said about growing up with her brother and his relationship with Heard.

Johnny Depp’s sister reveals their abusive mother used to call him ‘one eye’

Piers Morgan calls Heard and Depp ‘supreme narcissists’

Sunday 17 April 2022 22:08 , Oliver O'Connell

Piers Morgan has described Johnny Depp and Amber Heard as “supreme narccicists” amid the couple’s ongoing high-profile legal battle.

Louis Chilton reports.

Piers Morgan calls Amber Heard and Johnny Depp ‘supreme narcissists’

Heard’s former assistant asked about Depp’s texts

Sunday 17 April 2022 08:30 , Oliver O'Connell

Amber Heard’s former assistant Kate James testified on Thursday (14 April) in the defamation case opposing Johnny Depp and Heard in Virginia.

She was asked about a text allegedly sent by Depp to James in August 2016, reading, according to the transcript introduced as evidence: “Thank you, sweetheart... I’m disgusted that I ever f*****’ touched that scum... Back on Tuesday!!! And then... Court!!! Will hit you when I get back, doll... Come over for a spot of purple and we’ll fix her flabby a**, nice and good!!! Loveth... J.”

Read more:

Amber Heard’s former assistant asked about shocking text in court

ICYMI - ‘The whole thing is insane’ says emotional friend in testimony

Sunday 17 April 2022 06:30 , Oliver O'Connell

In the defamation case against Amber Heard brought by her ex-husband Johnny Depp, a former neighbour of the couple became emotional during extensive testimony about his friendship with the pair.

Isaac Baruch, who first met Depp as a teenager in Florida and became his longtime friend, lived in one of the five penthouse lofts at the Eastern Columbia Building in Downtown Los Angeles owned by the actor.

At one point on Wednesday, he was asked by Heard’s lawyer Elaine Bredehoft if he was angry with her client given all that unfolded as the couple broke up and allegations were made against Depp.

Here’s what he said:

Johnny Depp’s friend pleads for couple to ‘go heal’ in emotional testimony

Heard’s personal assistant says she was paid ‘very poorly’

Sunday 17 April 2022 04:30 , Oliver O'Connell

Katherine “Kate” James has addressed the extreme working conditions she allegedly endured as a former personal assistant to Amber Heard.

During Johnny Depp’s defamation trial against his ex-wife on Thursday (14 April), Heard’s personal assistant answered questions – in a pre-recorded video deposition completed in February – regarding her past employment with the film star, which she said lasted from 2012 to 2015.

Inga Parkel reports.

Amber Heard’s personal assistant says she was paid ‘very poorly’ by film star

ICYMI: Depp’s friend insists actor and wife were ‘loving’ couple

Sunday 17 April 2022 02:30 , Oliver O'Connell

A friend of Johnny Depp testified as a witness on day three of the defamation trial opposing Depp and his ex-wife Amber Heard.

Isaac Baruch was called to testify on Wednedsay (13 April) in Fairfax, Virginia. He took the stand after cross-examination wrapped up for Mr Depp’s sister Christi Dembrowski.

Mr Baruch said he first got to know Mr Depp when both were teenagers in Florida, playing in bands. He testified for a couple of hours, giving colorful testimony that at times drew smiles and laughs from others in the courthouse – including Mr Depp and Ms Heard themselves.

Depp friend insists actor and wife were ‘loving’ couple as he’s grilled over bruises

Piers Morgan calls Heard and Depp ‘supreme narcissists’

Sunday 17 April 2022 00:30 , Oliver O'Connell

Piers Morgan has described Johnny Depp and Amber Heard as “supreme narccicists” amid the couple’s ongoing high-profile legal battle.

Piers Morgan calls Amber Heard and Johnny Depp ‘supreme narcissists’

Couple’s former marriage counselor says pair engaged in ‘mutual abuse’

Saturday 16 April 2022 22:30 , Oliver O'Connell

Johnny Depp and Amber Heard’s former marriage counselor told a courtroom the couple engaged in what she saw as “mutual abuse”.

Dr Laurel Anderson was called as a witness on Thursday (14 April) as part of the defamation trial opposing Depp and Heard in Fairfax, Virginia. She was asked about some of her past sessions with the pair.

Asked whether Heard had ever reported any physical violence by Depp to her, Dr Anderson said yes. Asked whether she had seen photos, she said she had but doesn’t remember when. Asked whether “there was violence from Mr Depp toward Amber”, she said: “Yes, you’re right.”

“He had been well controlled for, I don’t know – 20, 30 years, and both were victims of abuse in their homes, but I thought he had been well controlled for decades,” she added. “And then with Ms Heard he was triggered and they engaged in what I saw as mutual abuse.”

Depp and Heard’s former marriage counselor says couple engaged in ‘mutual abuse’

ICYMI: Johnny Depp’s friend ejected as witness as she admits watching clips of defamation trial

Saturday 16 April 2022 20:30 , Oliver O'Connell

A friend of Johnny Depp was ejected as a witness while testifying in the defamation trial opposing Depp and his ex-wife Amber Heard.

Gina Deuters, who is married to a member of Depp’s staff and is herself a close friend of the actor’s, gave testimony on Thursday (14 April) at the Fairfax County Courthouse in Virginia.

She answered questions about Depp’s drugs and alcohol use, telling the court she had seen him use weed and cocaine occasionally, and that she had seen him drink alcohol. Deuters testified that she had never seen Depp be violent or angry after using any substances or drinking alcohol.

Clémence Michallon reports on what happened next.

Johnny Depp’s friend ejected as witness as she admits watching clips of trial

ICYMI: Court shown plans of Depp and Heard’s five-home penthouse

Saturday 16 April 2022 18:30 , Oliver O'Connell

During testimony on day two of evidence in the defamation case against Amber Heard brought by her ex-husband Johnny Depp, much was made of the art deco building in which the couple lived.

Between 2013 and 2016 Depp owned five penthouses on the top floor of the historic Eastern Columbia Building on Broadway in the theatre district of Downtown Los Angeles.

Testifying on Wednesday were Depp’s longtime friend and neighbour, Isaac Baruch, and the general manager of the building, Brandon Patterson.

Here’s why the condo development is important to the trial.

Court shown Johnny Depp and Amber Heard’s elaborate semi-communal penthouse

Depp & Heard: A timeline of their relationship, allegations, and court battles

Saturday 16 April 2022 16:22 , Oliver O'Connell

The trial in Johnny Depp’s defamation lawsuit against Amber Heard has adjourned for the weekend, with proceedings scheduled to restart at 10am on Monday. Here’s how the pair ended up in court in Fairfax County, Virginia.

A timeline of Johnny Depp and Amber Heard’s relationship and court battles

Everything we learned during first week of trial

Saturday 16 April 2022 13:15 , Louise Boyle

US Culture Writer Clémence Michallon recaps the first week of proceedings at the defamation trial in Fairfax, Virginia.

Everything we learned during first week of Johnny Depp and Amber Heard’s trieal

Piers Morgan calls Amber Heard and Depp ‘supreme narcissists’ amid trial

Saturday 16 April 2022 09:00 , Maanya Sachdeva

Piers Morgan has described Johnny Depp and Amber Heard as “supreme narcissists” amid the couple’s ongoing high-profile legal battle.

In an opinion column for the New York Post, Morgan wrote: “I can honestly say that the number of f***s I give about this shamelessly deluded and self-obsessed pair of whiny wastrels could be written on the back of Mycoplasma genitalium, the planet’s smallest living organism.”

He also compared Depp and Heard to exes Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie, who have been embroiled in a bitter legal battle over custody of their children since they divorced in 2016.

The divisive ex-Good Morning Britain host Morgan accused the pair of “playing the victim at a time when there are millions of real victims suffering from war, a killer virus, and crippling rises in the cost of living”.

Amber Heard’s personal assistant says she was paid ‘very poorly’ by film star

Saturday 16 April 2022 07:30 , Maanya Sachdeva

Katherine “Kate” James recounted the extreme working conditions she allegedly endured as a former personal assistant to Amber Heard during her testimony in the defamation trial.

Heard’s personal assistant answered questions – in a pre-recorded video deposition completed in February – regarding her past employment with the film star, which she said lasted from 2012 to 2015.

In the video, James explained that her job duties included “too many to mention” and that Heard paid her “very poorly”.

“She paid me $25 an hour to start off with and she finally agreed after screaming abuse at me that she would pay me $50,000 a year once I went to full time.”

The Independent’s Inga Parkel has the full story here:

Amber Heard’s personal assistant says she was paid ‘very poorly’ by film star

Amber Heard’s defence: What is anti-SLAPP provision?

Saturday 16 April 2022 05:55 , Maanya Sachdeva

Amber Heard is likely to argue that The Washington Post op-ed over which ex Johnny Depp is suing her is a matter of public interest during their ongoing trial at Fairfax County Circuit Court.

Judge Penney Azcarate ruled in a preliminary hearing in Virginia in March that Ms Heard’s legal team was entitled to use a defence known as an anti-SLAPP Provision, which stands for a Strategic Lawsuit Against Public Participation.

According to the provision, Heard is free to argue before a jury that she should be protected from a libel lawsuit given that the article in question addressed a matter of public interest and safety.

Depp is suing Heard for $50m for defamation over the 2018 article in which she alluded that the Pirates of the Caribbean actor assaulted her.

Where did the relationship go wrong?

Saturday 16 April 2022 02:00 , Megan Sheets

At the heart of the defamation trial is the question of what - or who - caused Depp and Heard’s relationship to fall apart.

The Independent’s Clémence Michallon explains the case pitting these former lovers on opposite sides:

Everything we know about Johnny Depp and Amber Heard’s defamation case

Everything to know about Depp and Heard’s relationship

Saturday 16 April 2022 01:00 , Megan Sheets

Depp and Heard are believed to have started dating in 2012, after Depp split from his longtime partner, French actor Vanessa Paradis.

They got engaged in 2014 before tying the knot a year later.

By May 2016, they were in court seeking a divorce.

The Independent’s Clémence Michallon recaps the relationship:

A timeline of Johnny Depp and Amber Heard’s relationship and court battles

Heard accuses Depp of sexual assault for the first time

Saturday 16 April 2022 00:15 , Megan Sheets

Most of the allegations made in Tuesday’s opening statements had been aired before - except one from Heard’s legal team.

Her attorney, Elaine Bredehoft, claimed that Depp sexually assaulted Heard using a liquor bottle during a black-out drunk episode.

Upon hearing this claim, Depp appeared to shake his head in disbelief. Later, his attorney questioned why she’d never made it before.

The Independent’s Graig Graziosi reports:

Amber Heard accuses Johnny Depp of sexual assault with liquor bottle

Depp’s sister reveals their mother’s abuse

Friday 15 April 2022 23:30 , Megan Sheets

Depp’s older sister Christi Dembrowski, who is also the president of his production company Infinitum Nihil, took the stand on Tuesday and told the court about the siblings’ early lives and growing up in Kentucky with an abusive mother described as “angry” and “high strung”.

She said her mother would hit them and their father, and called them names. She claimed her mother called Mr Depp “one-eye” because he wore an eyepatch to correct a lazy eye when he was a child.

“Did Johnny respond?” Mr Depp’s attorney Benjamin Chew asked Ms Dembrowski.

“Those names were just a way of life. We got used to them,” she replied.

The Independent’s Maanya Sachdeva reports:

Johnny Depp’s sister reveals their abusive mother used to call him ‘one eye’

Depp smirks in court

Friday 15 April 2022 22:45 , Megan Sheets

One of Depp’s most expressive moments in court this week came during the opening statement from Heard’s lawyer, Elaine Bredehoft, who told the jury: “Johnny Depp is obsessed with Elon Musk.”

A smirk erupted on the actor’s face in response - possibly due to his previous claims that Heard had an affair with Musk.

The Independent’s Graeme Massie describes the moment:

Johnny Depp smirks as court hears he’s obsessed with Elon Musk

Voices: A courthouse infiltrated by fame

Friday 15 April 2022 22:00 , Megan Sheets

Our reporter, Clémence Michallon, has been covering the defamation trial from inside the Fairfax County courthouse throughout this week.

Here, she shares her insights on the proceedings:

From hardcore Johnny Depp fans to inappropriate texts: At the courthouse in Virginia

In pictures: Outside the courtroom

Friday 15 April 2022 21:30 , Megan Sheets

Heard speaks out

Friday 15 April 2022 21:00 , Megan Sheets

Before the defamation trial got underway in Virginia this week, Heard shared a public message about facing her ex-husband in court.

The actress told her Instagram followers: “I’m going to go offline for the next several weeks. As you may know, I’ll be in Virginia where I face my ex-husband Johnny Depp in court.”

She continued: “Johnny is suing me for an op-ed I wrote in The Washington Post, in which I recounted my experience of violence and domestic abuse. I never named him, rather I wrote about the price women pay for speaking against men in power. I continue to pay that price, but hopefully when this case concludes, I can move on and so can Johnny.

“I have always maintained a love for Johnny and it brings me great pain to have to live out the details of our past life together in front of the word.”

Former marriage counselor tells all

Friday 15 April 2022 20:30 , Megan Sheets

The professional who counseled Depp and Heard through marital issues took centre stage in the courtroom on Thursday as she told the jury how she believed they engaged in “mutual abuse”.

Asked whether Heard had ever reported any physical violence by Depp to her, Dr Laurel Anderson said yes. Asked whether she had seen photos, she said she had but doesn’t remember when. Asked whether “there was violence from Mr Depp toward Amber”, she said: “Yes, you’re right.”

“He had been well controlled for, I don’t know – 20, 30 years, and both were victims of abuse in their homes, but I thought he had been well controlled for decades,” she added. “And then with Ms Heard he was triggered and they engaged in what I saw as mutual abuse.”

The Independent’s Clémence Michallon reports:

Depp and Heard’s former marriage counselor says couple engaged in ‘mutual abuse’

Inside Depp and Heard’s five-home penthouse

Friday 15 April 2022 20:00 , Megan Sheets

The art deco building where Heard and Depp made a home together was put before the jury during the second day of testimony on Friday as the property’s general manager took the witness stand.

The Independent’s Oliver O’Connell reports:

Court shown Johnny Depp and Amber Heard’s elaborate semi-communal penthouse

Depp’s friend ejected as a witness

Friday 15 April 2022 19:30 , Megan Sheets

The testimony of Depp’s friend, Gina Deuters, was struck from the record after she admitted to watching clips of the trial online prior to taking the stand.

Ms Deuters, who is married to a member of Depp’s staff and is herself a close friend of the actor’s, testified on Thursday about his drug and alcohol use, telling the court she had seen him use weed and cocaine occasionally, and that she had seen him drink alcohol. She said she had never seen Depp be violent or angry after using any substances or drinking alcohol.

Her testimony was halted when Heard’s legal team approached the bench, after which the judge asked Ms Deuters: “Have you been watching the trial this past week?”

She replied: “I’ve seen clips of it online, yes.”

The Independent’s Clémence Michallon explains the ordeal:

Johnny Depp’s friend ejected as witness as she admits watching clips of trial

Everything we learned at the trial this week

Friday 15 April 2022 19:00 , Megan Sheets

The Independent’s Clémence Michallon, who has been covering the defamation trial from the Fairfax County court this week, explains the biggest revelations thus far:

Everything we learned during first week of Johnny Depp and Amber Heard’s trieal

Depp’s legal team calls Heard a ‘compulsive liar'

Friday 15 April 2022 18:30 , Megan Sheets

Depp’s lawyers launched their case against Heard by calling her a “compulsive liar” in opening statements on Tuesday.

They sought to poke holes in the timeline of Heard’s allegations in a bid to convince jurors that she made the claims up to further her own acting career.

“In Mr Depp’s 58 years, not a single woman has ever accused him of violence, and nobody in Hollywood or the world had any reason to believe he was an abuser – until Ms Heard publicly accused him,” lawyer Camille Vasquez said.

The Independent’s Graig Graziosi recaps the opening statement:

Johnny Depp to testify as lawyers claim Amber Heard is a ‘compulsive liar’

‘The whole thing is insane’: Depp’s friend breaks down on the stand

Friday 15 April 2022 18:00 , Megan Sheets

Depp’s longtime friend, Isaac Baruch, was overcome by emotion during his testimony on Wednesday as he described how Heard’s abuse allegations affected everyone around the couple.

Asked about the end of his friendship with Heard in 2016, he said: “Am I angry anymore? What I am is tired. I want this all to end. For her to go heal, him to go heal.”

He continued: “It’s so many people have been affected by this malicious lie that she started and she created, and it’s gone out the door and around the world, and so I can’t even paint anymore. I’ve stopped painting for the last how many years.

“I’m not angry at anybody. I want the best for her, for her to take her responsibility, heal and move on. Move on, and for Johnny … his family has been completely wrecked by all of this stuff and it’s not … it’s not fair… it’s not right.”

The Independent’s Oliver O’Connell reports:

Johnny Depp’s friend pleads for couple to ‘go heal’ in emotional testimony

Depp’s shocking text exposed at trial

Friday 15 April 2022 17:30 , Megan Sheets

One of the most jarring moments of the trial thus far came on Wednesday, when the jury was shown a text message in which Depp called Heard a “c*nt” and a “rotting corpse”.

Depp had sent the message to a friend, Isaac Baruch, who was grilled on the witness stand by Heard’s attorney Elaine Bredehoft.

“Do you recall Mr Depp ever telling you that he hoped that Amber Heard’s rotting corpse is decomposing in the f*****g trunk of a Honda Civic?” Ms Bredehoft asked.

Mr Baruch pointed to a monitor on which the message was displayed and said: “Yeah. Well, I say yeah – I’m seeing it here, so obviously, yeah, it was said. It was written.”

The Independent’s Clémence Michallon reports:

Shocking Johnny Depp texts about Amber Heard revealed in court

In pictures: The first week of testimony

Friday 15 April 2022 17:00 , Megan Sheets

Here are some of the scenes inside the courtroom this week:

Which A-listers could take the stand?

Friday 15 April 2022 16:30 , Megan Sheets

Before the trial kicked off, Depp and Heard each published a list of witnesses their teams may wish to call upon.

The lists feature a number of very well-known names, including James Franco, Elon Musk, Paul Bettany - and the actors themselves.

Clémence Michallon takes a look at who could be called to testify and why:

From James Franco to Elon Musk, who could testify at Johnny Depp v Amber Heard trial?

Heard’s former assistant, Depp’s sister and the couple’s marriage counselor: Witnesses so far

Friday 15 April 2022 16:00 , Megan Sheets

Over the first three days of testimony, the court listened to a string of witnesses describing Depp and Heard’s fraught relationship.

They included:

Dr Laurel Anderson - the couple’s former marriage counselor who said they engaged in “mutual abuse”

Katherine “Kate” James - Heard’s former personal assistant who spoke of the extreme work conditions she endured and said she was “very poorly” paid

Christi Dembrowski - Depp’s sister who revealed abuse by their mother

Isaac Baruch - Depp’s friend who begged the couple to “go heal”

RECAP: Why is Depp suing Heard?

Friday 15 April 2022 15:30 , Megan Sheets

If you’re just joining The Independent’s coverage of the trial opposing Johnny Depp and Amber Heard, here’s what you need to know:

Depp filed a lawsuit against his ex-wife Heard in March 2019, alleging that she defamed him in an op-ed she wrote in 2018 for The Washington Post.

The op-ed, which ran in December of that year, is titled: “I spoke up against sexual violence — and faced our culture’s wrath. That has to change.”

Depp isn’t mentioned by name in the op-ed, but his legal team has argued that it contains a “clear implication that Mr Depp is a domestic abuser”, which it says is “categorically and demonstrably false”.

Clémence Michallon explains:

Everything we know about Johnny Depp and Amber Heard’s defamation case

Court not in session today

Friday 15 April 2022 15:00 , Megan Sheets

There will be no testimony heard today in Fairfax County’s district courthouse, with the trial set to resume for a fourth day on Monday.

In announcing the hiatus on Thursday afternoon, Judge Penney Azcarate gave an extensive reminder to the jury that they cannot research, read, or speak about the trial in any way over their three-day weekend.

She also reminded Depp and Heard not to give interviews or post on social media regarding the trial.

Voices: I was Johnny Depp’s biggest fan as a teenager – but I’d never admit that now

Friday 15 April 2022 14:40 , Oliver O'Connell

“I’m sure I’m not alone in having previously worshipped a now-problematic star – it seems as if all of our idols fall short eventually, although some in more controversial and damaging ways than others,” writes Harriet Williamson.

Opinion: I was Johnny Depp’s biggest fan as a teenager – but I’d never admit that now

Heard’s former personal assistant says she was paid ‘very poorly’

Friday 15 April 2022 14:20 , Oliver O'Connell

Katherine “Kate” James has addressed the extreme working conditions she allegedly endured as a former personal assistant to Amber Heard.

During Johnny Depp’s defamation trial against his ex-wife on Thursday (14 April), Heard’s personal assistant answered questions – in a pre-recorded video deposition completed in February – regarding her past employment with the film star, which she said lasted from 2012 to 2015.

Inga Parkel reports.

Amber Heard’s personal assistant says she was paid ‘very poorly’ by film star

Gina Deuters: Depp friend dismissed as witness

Friday 15 April 2022 14:00 , Oliver O'Connell

A friend of Johnny Depp was ejected as a witness while testifying in the defamation trial opposing Depp and his ex-wife Amber Heard.

Gina Deuters, who is married to a member of Depp’s staff and is herself a close friend of the actor’s, gave testimony on Thursday (14 April) at the Fairfax County Courthouse in Virginia.

However, the evidence she submitted is no longer admissable.

Clémence Michallon reports on what happened next.

Johnny Depp’s friend ejected as witness as she admits watching clips of trial

Depp and Heard’s former marriage counselor says couple engaged in ‘mutual abuse’

Friday 15 April 2022 13:30 , Oliver O'Connell

Johnny Depp and Amber Heard’s former marriage counselor told a courtroom the couple engaged in what she saw as “mutual abuse”.

Dr Laurel Anderson was called as a witness on Thursday (14 April) as part of the defamation trial opposing Depp and Heard in Fairfax, Virginia. She was asked about some of her past sessions with the pair.

Clémence Michallon reports.

Depp and Heard’s former marriage counselor says couple engaged in ‘mutual abuse’

Testimony: Kate James, Heard’s former assistant

Friday 15 April 2022 13:00 , Oliver O'Connell

Amber Heard’s former assistant Kate James testified on Thursday (14 April) in the defamation case opposing Johnny Depp and Heard in Virginia.

She was asked about a text allegedly sent by Depp to James in August 201.

Clémence Michallon reports on what it said.

Amber Heard’s former assistant asked about shocking text in court

Depp and Heard’s penthouse lifestyle

Friday 15 April 2022 12:15 , Oliver O'Connell

During testimony on day two of evidence in the defamation case against Amber Heard brought by her ex-husband Johnny Depp, much was made of the art deco building in which the couple lived.

Between 2013 and 2016 Depp owned five penthouses on the top floor of the historic Eastern Columbia Building on Broadway in the theatre district of Downtown Los Angeles.

Testifying on Wednesday were Depp’s longtime friend and neighbour, Isaac Baruch, and the general manager of the building, Brandon Patterson.

Here’s why their luxury home plays such an important part in the case.

Court shown Johnny Depp and Amber Heard’s elaborate semi-communal penthouse

ICYMI: ‘The whole thing is insane’

Friday 15 April 2022 11:30 , Oliver O'Connell

In the defamation case against Amber Heard brought by her ex-husband Johnny Depp, a former neighbour of the couple became emotional during extensive testimony about his friendship with the pair.

Isaac Baruch, who first met Depp as a teenager in Florida and became his longtime friend, lived in one of the five penthouse lofts at the Eastern Columbia Building in Downtown Los Angeles owned by the actor.

At one point on Wednesday, he was asked by Heard’s lawyer Elaine Bredehoft if he was angry with her client given all that unfolded as the couple broke up and allegations were made against Depp.

Here’s what he said:

Johnny Depp’s friend pleads for couple to ‘go heal’ in emotional testimony

Heard lawyers zero in on Depp's drug and alcohol use

Friday 15 April 2022 10:45 , Oliver O'Connell

Attorneys for Amber Heard, the ex-wife of Johnny Depp, zeroed in on the movie star’s drug and alcohol use Wednesday as they defended her from Depp’s allegations that she falsely portrayed him as a domestic abuser.

Heard lawyer J. Benjamin Rottenborn resumed his cross-examination of Depp’s older sister, Christi Dembrowski, focusing on a February 2014 text exchange between Heard and Dembrowski.

Heard lawyers zero in on Depp's drug and alcohol use

ICYMI: Depp’s friend grilled over bruises on Heard’s face

Friday 15 April 2022 10:00 , Oliver O'Connell

A friend of Johnny Depp testified as a witness on day three of the defamation trial opposing Depp and his ex-wife Amber Heard.

Isaac Baruch was called to testify on Wednedsay (13 April) in Fairfax, Virginia. He took the stand after cross-examination wrapped up for Mr Depp’s sister Christi Dembrowski.

Mr Baruch said he first got to know Mr Depp when both were teenagers in Florida, playing in bands. He testified for a couple of hours, giving colorful testimony that at times drew smiles and laughs from others in the courthouse – including Mr Depp and Ms Heard themselves.

Depp friend insists actor and wife were ‘loving’ couple as he’s grilled over bruises

How we got here: Depp and Heard - a timeline of their relationship

Friday 15 April 2022 09:15 , Oliver O'Connell

As Depp’s $50m defamation lawsuit gets underway in Virginia, Clémence Michallon looks at the former couple’s history, together and apart.

A timeline of Johnny Depp and Amber Heard’s relationship and court battles

Piers Morgan calls Heard and Depp ‘supreme narcissists’

Friday 15 April 2022 08:30 , Oliver O'Connell

Piers Morgan has described Johnny Depp and Amber Heard as “supreme narccicists” amid the couple’s ongoing high-profile legal battle.

In an opinion column for the New York Post, Morgan wrote: “I can honestly say that the number of f***s I give about this shamelessly deluded and self-obsessed pair of whiny wastrels could be written on the back of Mycoplasma genitalium, the planet’s smallest living organism.”

Louis Chilton has the story.

Piers Morgan calls Amber Heard and Johnny Depp ‘supreme narcissists’

Depp’s sister says family was ‘devastated’ with the marriage

Friday 15 April 2022 07:00 , Oliver O'Connell

Johnny Depp’s sister says Amber Heard called him “old and fat” and that the actor’s family was “devastated” at his marriage to her.

Christi Dembrowski made the claims as she took the stand as the first witness in the multi-million dollar defamation trial in Virginia.

Graeme Massie reports.

Johnny Depp’s sister says Amber Heard called him ‘old and fat’

Depp smirks as court hears he’s obsessed with Elon Musk

Friday 15 April 2022 06:15 , Oliver O'Connell

Johnny Depp smirked in a Virginia courtroom when a lawyer for Amber Heard suggested that the Hollywood star was “obsessed” with Tesla CEO Elon Musk.

The actor appeared to stifle a laugh during opening statements in the case, when Ms Heard’s lawyer, Elaine Bredehoft, told the civil jury of 11 people that “Johny Depp is obsessed with Elon Musk”.

Graeme Massie reports.

Johnny Depp smirks as court hears he’s obsessed with Elon Musk

Opening statement: Heard accuses Depp of sexual assault with liquor bottle

Friday 15 April 2022 05:30 , Oliver O'Connell

Explosive new allegations have been made by Amber Heard about her ex-husband, Johnny Depp, during the opening arguments of his $50m defamation trial.

Ms Heard’s attorney, Elaine Bredehoft, claimed that Mr Depp sexually assaulted Heard using a liquor bottle during a black-out drunk episode.

Mr Depp was visibly skeptical as Ms Bredehoft made the claims, and shook his head “no” after her comments.

Graig Graziosi reports.

Amber Heard accuses Johnny Depp of sexual assault with liquor bottle

Opening statement: Depp team says Heard is compulsive liar

Friday 15 April 2022 04:45 , Oliver O'Connell

The legal team representing Johnny Depp in the defamation case against his ex-wife Amber Heard has made their opening statements, with Mr Depp’s attorneys painting Ms Heard as a compulsive and chronic liar who used the allegations she made against the actor as a means to advance her own career.

They claimed she wanted to portray herself as a heroic survivor of abuse.

The attorneys also noted Mr Depp’s drug and alcohol use, but argued that a substance abuse problem does not prove that he ever hurt Ms Heard.

Graig Graziosi reports.

Johnny Depp to testify as lawyers claim Amber Heard is a ‘compulsive liar’

ICYMI: Fans, stars, and a flurry of questions as trial opens in Virginia

Friday 15 April 2022 04:00 , Oliver O'Connell

Johnny Depp and Amber Heard were both present for the first day of the defamation case opposing them in Virginia, Clémence Michallon reports from Fairfax.

Johnny Depp v Amber Heard trial opens in Virginia with fans, stars, and questions

The Viper Room: End of an era

Friday 15 April 2022 03:15 , Oliver O'Connell

As Johnny Depp appeared in court in Virginia this week, The Viper Room, his former nightclub where Tom Petty played, the Pussycat Dolls were born, and River Phoenix died, is soon to be demolished.

Kevin E G Perry takes a look at the infamous venue’s storied past.

Drugs, Dolls & Johnny Depp: The Viper Room’s demolition is the end of a Hollywood era

Depp and Heard: How we got here

Friday 15 April 2022 02:30 , Oliver O'Connell

Everything we know about Johnny Depp and Amber Heard’s defamation case

Friday 15 April 2022 01:45 , Oliver O'Connell

Amber Heard’s former assistant Kate James testified on Thursday (14 April) in the defamation case opposing Johnny Depp and Heard in Virginia and was asked about a text allegedly sent by Depp to her in August 2016.

Clémence Michallon reports on what was said about Heard.

Amber Heard’s former assistant asked about shocking text in court

The penthouse life: Why the couple’s home in Downtown LA was important this week

Friday 15 April 2022 01:00 , Oliver O'Connell

During testimony on day two of evidence in the defamation case against Amber Heard brought by her ex-husband Johnny Depp, much was made of the art deco building in which the couple lived.

Between 2013 and 2016 Depp owned five penthouses on the top floor of the historic Eastern Columbia Building on Broadway in the theatre district of Downtown Los Angeles.

Testifying on Wednesday were Depp’s longtime friend and neighbour, Isaac Baruch, and the general manager of the building, Brandon Patterson.

Here’s why the building is an important setting for the case.

Court shown Johnny Depp and Amber Heard’s elaborate semi-communal penthouse

‘The whole thing is insane’

Friday 15 April 2022 00:15 , Oliver O'Connell

In the defamation case against Amber Heard brought by her ex-husband Johnny Depp, a former neighbour of the couple became emotional during extensive testimony about his friendship with the pair.

Johnny Depp’s friend pleads for couple to ‘go heal’ in emotional testimony

Franco? Musk? Who else will testify at the trial?

Thursday 14 April 2022 23:30 , Oliver O'Connell

Ahead of the trial, Depp and Heard have each published a list of witnesses their teams may wish to call upon.

Clémence Michallon looks at some of those who might appear before the Virginia court.

From James Franco to Elon Musk, who could testify at Johnny Depp v Amber Heard trial?

Johnny Depp’s friend ejected as witness

Thursday 14 April 2022 23:15 , Oliver O'Connell

A friend of Johnny Depp was ejected as a witness while testifying in the defamation trial opposing Depp and his ex-wife Amber Heard.

Gina Deuters, who is married to a member of Depp’s staff and is herself a close friend of the actor’s, gave testimony on Thursday (14 April) at the Fairfax County Courthouse in Virginia.

However, the evidence she submitted is no longer admissable.

Clémence Michallon reports on what happened next.

Johnny Depp’s friend ejected as witness as she admits watching clips of trial

Heard’s former personal assistant says she was paid ‘very poorly’

Thursday 14 April 2022 23:00 , Oliver O'Connell

Katherine “Kate” James has addressed the extreme working conditions she allegedly endured as a former personal assistant to Amber Heard.

During Johnny Depp’s defamation trial against his ex-wife on Thursday (14 April), Heard’s personal assistant answered questions – in a pre-recorded video deposition completed in February – regarding her past employment with the film star, which she said lasted from 2012 to 2015.

Inga Parkel reports.

Amber Heard’s personal assistant says she was paid ‘very poorly’ by film star

Couple’s former marriage counselor says couple engaged in ‘mutual abuse’

Thursday 14 April 2022 22:45 , Oliver O'Connell

Johnny Depp and Amber Heard’s former marriage counselor told a courtroom the couple engaged in what she saw as “mutual abuse”.

Dr Laurel Anderson was called as a witness on Thursday (14 April) as part of the defamation trial opposing Depp and Heard in Fairfax, Virginia. She was asked about some of her past sessions with the pair.

Clémence Michallon reports.

Depp and Heard’s former marriage counselor says couple engaged in ‘mutual abuse’

Court adjourned until Monday

Thursday 14 April 2022 22:08 , Oliver O'Connell

Judge Penney Azcarate gives an extensive reminder to the jury that they cannot research, read, or speak about the trial in any way over their three-day weekend break.

She also reminds Depp and Heard not to give interviews or post on social media regarding the trial.

Court is adjourned until Monday.

In pictures: Today in court

Thursday 14 April 2022 21:59 , Oliver O'Connell

Thursday 14 April 2022 21:52 , Oliver O'Connell

Dr Kipper describes the March 2015 incident in Australia in which Depp lost the top of his finger. The actor texted him to tell him what happened.

When he arrived at the property he says Depp was coherent, but the house was a mess and the couple had been fighting.

He adds that Heard was also coherent in the aftermath.

Thursday 14 April 2022 21:31 , Oliver O'Connell

As Dr Kipper treated Depp, several times the actor fired him and wanted to stop taking all medications prescribed to treat his addictions.

He would grow angry at Heard for insisting he take his medication.

Dr Kipper’s nurse once found Depp with bloody knuckles after hitting a wall in frustration or anger. On another occasion he kicked in a trailer door on a movie set.

Thursday 14 April 2022 20:46 , Oliver O'Connell

Dr Kipper talks about his notes from meetin with Depp who he says was trying to detox from multiple drugs.

These include: alcohol, opioids, benzodiazepines, and cocaine.

New witness: Dr David Kipper

Thursday 14 April 2022 20:32 , Oliver O'Connell

The next witness is Dr David Kipper who has been practicing medicine since 1977 and provides concierge healthcare — wealthy patients pay an annual fee for 24/7 access to a doctor.

Dr Kipper works in addiction and published a book, The Addiction Solution.

He appears by pre-recorded video deposition.

Thursday 14 April 2022 20:28 , Oliver O'Connell

The jury is brought back in and told to disregard all of Gina Deuters’ testimony.

Thursday 14 April 2022 20:22 , Oliver O'Connell

The court has reconvened after a conference at the bench with Judge Azcarate involving six attorneys.

The jury has not been brought back in yet.

Thursday 14 April 2022 19:56 , Oliver O'Connell

The jury is asked to step out and Ms Deuters is asked if she has watched any of the trial this week.

She admits to having seen clips online and Judge Azcarate excuses her and strikes her testimony from record.

The court is now in its afternoon recess.

Thursday 14 April 2022 19:53 , Oliver O'Connell

Asked about the Depp-Heard wedding, Ms Deuters says it was predominantly her friends and family as a lot of his couldn’t make it due to the relatively short notice.

She also shares that she took MDMA with Amber’s friends at the wedding.

After the wedding they all flew to Australia to work on Pirates of the Caribbean 5.

Thursday 14 April 2022 19:46 , Oliver O'Connell

Ms Deuters says she doesn’t believe in her interactions with Heard that she was wearing make-up, being naturally beautiful.

She says she considers herself a make-up expert having suffered from hormonal acne when younger, believing she could tell if someone is wearing foundation or concealer.

Ms Deuters is also asked about Arnica cream, the anti-bruise cream heard so much about yesterday (but oftern mispronounced). She knows what the cream is, and has used it herself.

Thursday 14 April 2022 19:34 , Oliver O'Connell

Ms Deuters recalls happy times with Depp and his former partner Vanessa Paradis and their children on holidays with her husband while on down time from movie productions.

Depp smiles as she speaks about these times.

She is then quizzed about Depp’s use of alcohol and drugs and says she has seen him use weed and cocaine, the latter she guess approximately 20 times over 17 years of knowing him.

She says she noticed nothing out of the ordinary about Depp’s behaviour when he used drugs and he would be “jovial” when drinking alcohol.

New witness: Gina Deuters

Thursday 14 April 2022 19:23 , Oliver O'Connell

The jury has returned from lunch and the next witness is in the stand: Georgina Diane Deuters (Gina).

Ms Deuters is a freelancer who creates images for social media. She was previously in special effects for movies from 2002 to 2016 and worked on Charlie & The Chocolate Factory and Pirates of the Caribbean 4.

She says she is a good friend of Depp and met him after the premier of a movie.

Voices: I was Johnny Depp’s biggest fan as a teenager

Thursday 14 April 2022 18:50 , Oliver O'Connell

“I’m sure I’m not alone in having previously worshipped a now-problematic star – it seems as if all of our idols fall short eventually, although some in more controversial and damaging ways than others,” writes Harriet Williamson.

Opinion: I was Johnny Depp’s biggest fan as a teenager – but I’d never admit that now

Court shown plans of Johnny Depp and Amber Heard’s semi-communal five-home penthouse

Thursday 14 April 2022 18:27 , Oliver O'Connell

During testimony on day two of evidence in the defamation case against Amber Heard brought by her ex-husband Johnny Depp, much was made of the art deco building in which the couple lived.

Between 2013 and 2016 Depp owned five penthouses on the top floor of the historic Eastern Columbia Building on Broadway in the theatre district of Downtown Los Angeles.

Testifying on Wednesday were Depp’s longtime friend and neighbour, Isaac Baruch, and the general manager of the building, Brandon Patterson.

Court shown Johnny Depp and Amber Heard’s elaborate semi-communal penthouse

Thursday 14 April 2022 18:07 , Oliver O'Connell

Judge Azcarate calls for a lunch break.

Court resumes at 2.15pm.

Thursday 14 April 2022 18:06 , Oliver O'Connell

Dr Anderson reiterates that Heard initiated fights and often fought as hard as Depp.

She says that he also tried to deescalate situations.

Dr Anderson recalls ‘multiple’ small bruises on Heard's face

Thursday 14 April 2022 18:03 , Oliver O'Connell

Dr Anderson says Heard not only showed her photos of injuries shortly after an alleged abuse event, but also showed her bruising on her face at an in-person meeting.

She later says there were multiple small bruises on Heard’s face.

Thursday 14 April 2022 17:50 , Oliver O'Connell

Marriage counsellor says couple were mutually abusive in recorded deposition at Amber Heard’s defamation trial.

Dr Anderson describes ‘mutual abuse’ between Depp and Heard

Thursday 14 April 2022 17:24 , Oliver O'Connell

Dr Anderson describes Heard’s style of talking as “jackhammer” and “rapid fire” and that Depp was overwhelmed during the sessions as he had trouble keeping up.

Heard reported physical violence to Dr Anderson and says she was shown photos of Heard with bruises (she believes around her eyes). Dr Anderson never saw any abuse in person.

She describes “mutual abuse” between the two and that Heard had initiated incidents to stop Depp leaving on more than one occasion. Abandonment was her worst nightmare.

Dr Anderson said she was less sure of when Depp might have initiated confrontations.

“It was a point of pride to [Heard] if she felt disrespected to initiate a fight .... If he was going to leave her to deescalate [a] fight, she would strike him to keep him there. She would rather be in a fight to keep him there,” says Dr Anderson.

Court resumes with deposition from Depp and Heard’s counsellor

Thursday 14 April 2022 17:08 , Oliver O'Connell

The court is now hearing video deposition from Depp and Heard’s marriage counsellor, Dr Laurel Anderson.

Based in Los Angeles, Dr Anderson saw the pair separately in early October 2015, before moving to joint sessions, some of which saw one of the couple walk out.

In her ledger they are referred to as Anne Henry and Joey Davis.

Voices: From hardcore Johnny Depp fans with flowers to jurors’ inappropriate texts

Thursday 14 April 2022 16:57 , Oliver O'Connell

Clémence Michallon reports from outside the courthouse in Virginia.

From hardcore Johnny Depp fans to inappropriate texts: At the courthouse in Virginia

Thursday 14 April 2022 16:42 , Oliver O'Connell

Judge calls morning recess. Court resumes at 12pm.

James talks about Heard’s alleged drug and alcohol use

Thursday 14 April 2022 16:41 , Oliver O'Connell

Ms James says there was “lots of heavy drinking” by Heard and that she also used magic mushrooms, ecstasy, and cocaine.

She says Heard often appeared intoxicated.

Heard also used prescription medication including Accutrane to treat acne that doctors advise should not be taken with alcohol.

James describes abuse by Heard

Thursday 14 April 2022 16:35 , Oliver O'Connell

Ms James says Heard would scream at her over the phone and once in person as well as sending abusive text messages at all times of day and night which she describes as lashing out and not making sense.

She alleges Heard once spit in her face, when she asked for a raise. Ms James also says a handyman in the building was present for the fight and was “so ashamed to hear her speaking to me like that”.

James comments further on Depp-Heard relationship

Thursday 14 April 2022 16:32 , Oliver O'Connell

Further describing the relationship between Depp and Heard, Ms James says former employer told her she didn’t enjoy hanging out with her husband’s friends because it was “boring” and they were old men playing guitars which didn’t interest her.

Depp smiles at this point.

She adds that she would sometimes get the “evil eye” from Heard if she was seen speaking with Depp.

James asked about make-up and evidence of fights

Thursday 14 April 2022 16:11 , Oliver O'Connell

In testimony that corresponds to that given by Mr Baruch on Wednesday, Ms James is asked about Heard’s make-up habits.

She says that Heard usually never wore make-up unless going to a special event and id she did put make-up on herself it would be light with the addition of lashes.

Pressed about if she has ever seen Heard with a black eye, broken nose, bumps, bruises or swelling, she replies “no” and “never”.

She does say she would see her cry because she was a “pretty dramatic person”.

James is asked about a text from Depp

Thursday 14 April 2022 15:52 , Oliver O'Connell

Ms James is asked about a text from Johnny Depp in June 2016. It reads:

“Thank you, sweetheart... I’m disgusted that I ever f***in’ touched that scum... Back on Tuesday!!! And then... Court!!! Will hit you when I get back, doll... Come over for a spot of purple and we’ll fix her flabby ass, nice and good!!! Loveth... J”

She says she did meet with Depp, but that they did not drink red wine [purple]. She says she does not recall details saying, “It’s too long ago, Mr. Rottenborn. I don’t recall.”

Former assistant says she never saw evidence of abuse

Thursday 14 April 2022 15:47 , Oliver O'Connell

Ms James worked for Heard between 2012 and 2015 and they have not communicated in the past five years. She describes her employment as running Heard’s life every day and that each day was different.

Seemingly bitter about her time in Heard’s employ, which she describes as “insulting”, she recalls being paid $25/hour and when it was raised to $50,000 she had abuse screamed at her.

Describing her former boss as a “very dramatic person” she would often placate her by asking if she was OK. Asked if she has any real care about Heard’s wellbeing, she said “No”.

She also describes Heard as complaining or crying due to insecurities in the relationship but never told her anything about Johnny Depp being abusive.

On the abuse allegation she says there was never any evidence of it at all, adding she was there almost daily and never saw anything, further claiming she would have seen damage even if not present.

Background on Kate James, Amber Heard’s ex-assistant

Thursday 14 April 2022 15:28 , Oliver O'Connell

Amber Heard‘s former personal assistant has accused the actress of having “stolen” her story of being “violently raped” in evidence given in Johnny Depp‘s libel claim against The Sun.

Kate James accused Heard of “twisting” her own account of the machete-point rape in Brazil almost three decades ago ”for her own use”.

Amber Heard’s former personal assistant accuses actress of ‘stealing’ rape story

Heard’s former assistant is testifying in a pre-recorded video

Thursday 14 April 2022 15:13 , Oliver O'Connell

Click here to read the full blog on The Independent's website