Will Smith hugs and poses with Johnny Depp at film festival in major 'shift change'

At the Red Sea Film Festival in Saudi Arabia, Hollywood stars Johnny Depp and Will Smith shared a noteworthy moment, signaling a potential shift in Depp's industry standing following his highly publicized trial with Amber Heard.

The actors, who walked the red carpet separately along with other celebrities, were seen engaging in a warm embrace and conversation inside the event.

Will Smith, who has faced his own challenges in Hollywood recently, shared clips on social media featuring his interaction with Depp.

The footage, part of a larger compilation, showed the two in a friendly exchange, a moment Smith did not shy away from.

In his post, Smith expressed gratitude for the festival but did not explicitly mention Depp.

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The encounter is significant as it marks one of the first instances of an A-list celebrity openly engaging with Depp post-trial.

Depp's return to the Hollywood scene has been tentative, with limited high-profile appearances and a lukewarm reception.

His ex-wife, Amber Heard, has similarly been kept at a distance in the industry.

The interaction with Smith, who recently spoke about his own journey of healing and personal growth, suggests a potential change in attitude towards Depp.

Smith's gesture of acceptance, despite the two not having a prior close relationship or work history, reflects his new outlook on life, one that seems to embrace understanding over judgment.

The meeting between Smith and Depp raises questions about the future dynamics in Hollywood, particularly regarding Depp's career and the possibility of a similar moment of redemption for Amber Heard.