Shane MacGowan and his wife Victoria Mary Clarke said all their prayers have been answered after their best pal Johnny Depp won his multi-million dollar defamation lawsuit against his ex-wife Amber Heard.
A jury on Wednesday ruled that Heard defamed her former husband Depp following an explosive six-week libel trial.
Shortly after the verdict was reached, the Pogues frontman and Victoria said they were ‘thrilled beyond measure’ with the result, as they shared a photo of the Hollywood star to Instagram.
Read More : Newcastle pub staff reveal what Johnny Depp said after Amber Heard verdict
In a joint post, the couple who have a close friendship with the Pirates of the Caribbean star, said: “This is just SO ABSOLUTELY BRILLIANT!!!!!!! There are no words to express our excitement and gratitude.
“We have been praying and praying for this for years and to finally see justice is thrilling beyond measure!!! Well done to everyone involved and well done to everyone who stood by him no matter what!!! #justiceforjohnnydepp”.
Depp and MacGowan have been close friends for more than 30 years. In 2020, Depp produced a documentary about the musician's life and career: Crock of Gold – A Few Rounds with Shane MacGowan.
And he and his wife have been vocal in expressing their support for Depp throughout his recent court battles.
Last week, Victoria said that she was confident that Depp would win the case, adding: “Bring back Captain Jack!”
“Feeling very positive about the trial and incredibly impressed by the overwhelming public support for JD! Whatever happens we all know that he has won!!!!”
She added the hashtag #johnnydeppisinnocent.
MacGowan has also shared his support online, posting an image of the pair together, saying: “Stay strong brother, we are with you.”
Pirates of the Caribbean star Depp, 58, was awarded $15million in damages after suing Ms Heard for $50m, over an article she wrote on domestic violence.
The seven-person jury unanimously found Heard’s claims in the piece were “false” and she acted with “actual malice”.
The jury deliberated for 13 hours before returning their verdict at the court in Fairfax, Virginia, yesterday.
Depp was not in court as he is performing in the UK. He was seen in Newcastle having a pint with Geordie singer Sam Fender before the verdict was announced.
In a statement after the jury spoke, the actor said he “feels at peace”. He added:
“Six years ago, my life, the life of my children, the lives of those closest to me,
and also, the lives of the people who for many years supported and believed in me were forever changed.
“And six years later, the jury gave me my life back. I am truly humbled... A new chapter has finally begun.”
As part of the case, Heard counter-sued Depp for $100m – claiming her reputation had been ruined by the suggestion her claims were a hoax.
The jury found just one point of her claim was valid and awarded her damages worth $2m.
Get breaking news to your inbox by signing up to our newsletter