Amber Heard has broken her silence regarding the aftermath of her 2022 defamation trial against Johnny Depp, revealing the profound impact the experience has had on her ability to communicate. In a rare interview for the new documentary *Silenced*, which debuted at the 2026 Sundance Film Festival, the 39-year-old actress shared her struggle with finding her voice after being embroiled in public scrutiny and cyberbullying.
A Candid Reflection on Silence
Heard’s remarks come after a tumultuous period marked by her legal battle with Depp, who sued her for $50 million over claims made in a 2018 Washington Post op-ed, implying that she had been a victim of domestic abuse. The documentary, directed by Selina Miles, sheds light on the broader implications of defamation laws and their use against survivors of gender violence, with Heard’s own experiences serving as a poignant case study.
In her interview, Heard stated, “This is not about me. I have lost my ability to speak. I am not here to tell my story. I don’t want to tell my story. In fact, I don’t want to use my voice anymore. That’s the problem.” These powerful words underscore her struggle with reclaiming her narrative amid the chaos that followed the trial.
The Impact of the 2018 Trial
Heard also touched upon her involvement in the 2018 legal proceedings in the UK, where she testified against The Sun for calling Depp a “wife beater.” The outcome of that trial was pivotal in defining her subsequent experiences. “The outcome of that trial depended on my participation, and I depended on the outcome of that trial,” she remarked, highlighting the immense pressure she faced.
The actress reflected on the intense media scrutiny and online harassment she endured during the 2022 trial. Many studies have characterised this as one of the most severe instances of cyberbullying, predominantly instigated by Depp’s supporters. Yet, despite these challenges, she expressed a sense of resilience. “It gives me strength seeing other people take on the fight,” she affirmed, showcasing her commitment to supporting other women who grapple with similar issues.
A New Chapter in Spain
Since the conclusion of her high-profile trial, Heard has opted for a quieter life in Spain, focusing on theatre and raising her daughter as a single mother. Last year, she made her stage debut in *Spirit of the People* at the Williamstown Theatre Festival, marking her first artistic endeavour since appearing in *Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom* in 2023. This shift not only signifies a change in her career but also reflects her desire to pursue a path that resonates more closely with her personal values.
Why it Matters
Heard’s candid insights into her struggles with voice and identity following such public trauma resonate deeply in a world where many face similar battles against systemic injustices. Her experience underscores the broader implications of defamation laws on survivors of abuse, highlighting the urgent need for reform in how these laws are applied. As she navigates her new reality, Heard’s story serves as a powerful reminder of the resilience required to reclaim one’s narrative, and the importance of standing up for those whose voices have been silenced.
