The involvement of actress Amber Heard in “Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom” has been a topic of speculation and debate since her highly publicized legal battle with ex-husband Johnny Depp. As fans eagerly anticipate the sequel’s release, the twists and turns regarding Heard’s role in the film have added a layer of complexity to the narrative.

The Evolution of Amber Heard’s Involvement

In the early days of Heard and Depp’s public dispute in September 2020, initial reports suggested that Amber Heard would retain her role as Mera in “Aquaman 2.” However, as the legal battle between the former couple continued, rumors surfaced regarding the actress’s status in the DCEU sequel.

Former president of DC Films, Walter Hamada, testified during the Heard-Depp trial in May 2022, revealing that Warner Bros. initially hesitated to have Heard return due to concerns about her chemistry with Jason Momoa, the star of the “Aquaman” franchise. However, this decision was eventually reversed before the sequel’s production commenced in 2021.

The Complications of Heard’s Role in Aquaman 2

While Amber Heard confirmed her return as Mera in “Aquaman 2,” she disclosed during the defamation trial in May 2022 that her role had been significantly reduced. Heard mentioned that she received revised versions of the script that removed several of her prominent scenes, including action sequences and a fight scene involving Mera and another character.

In October 2023, Variety reported that two specific scenes involving Mera, an action sequence against Black Manta and a love scene with Jason Momoa’s Arthur Curry, were removed from the final cut of the film.

Director James Wan addressed the issue in September 2023, emphasizing that “Aquaman 2” primarily focuses on the brotherly relationship between Arthur Curry and Patrick Wilson’s Orm. He clarified that the first film centered on the romance and adventure between Arthur and Mera, while the sequel shifted its focus to a bromance and adventure dynamic.

Amber Heard’s Presence in Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom

Marketing materials for “Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom” eventually confirmed that Amber Heard does appear in the sequel, albeit with an uncertain degree of prominence. Trailers and promotional footage teased Mera’s role in the film, showing glimpses of her character’s journey.

Mera is briefly seen in the teaser, rushing towards a burning building. Other promotional shots feature Mera with the Curry family and depict her in distress in front of the same fiery structure. Additionally, a brief moment shows an enraged Mera attempting to break a glass panel in an underwater base.

James Wan’s earlier explanation that the sequel primarily focuses on the bond between Arthur and Orm suggests that Mera’s role may be more limited compared to her involvement in the first film. However, based on the trailers, it appears that Mera is on a quest for revenge, possibly pursuing Black Manta in connection to her son’s kidnapping.

The extent of Mera’s success in her mission and her role in the larger narrative remain intriguing questions as fans await the release of “Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom.”