The Johnny Depp and Amber Heard defamation trial captivated the world, becoming a cultural phenomenon with fervent supporters on both sides. While much attention was focused on Depp’s lawyer Camille Vasquez, who skillfully cross-examined Heard, it was Ben Chew who stood beside Depp throughout the weeks-long trial.
In a candid interview, Chew offered a unique perspective on the trial, the verdict, and the man at the center of it all – Johnny Depp.
The Weight of the World: Depp’s Demeanor Throughout the Trial
Chew described Depp as “smart,” “insightful,” and surprisingly “funny” despite the immense pressure of the trial. He recounted moments of shared humor, even amidst the intense scrutiny of the courtroom.
“If this guy whose life is on the line can find humor… it actually was really great for morale,” Chew revealed, emphasizing the impact of Depp’s resilience on the entire legal team.
Addressing the Jury’s Decision: Publicity and Suppressed Evidence?
The jury’s decision to rule in Depp’s favor sparked controversy, with Heard’s attorney, Elaine Bredehoff, suggesting the jury was influenced by media coverage and that crucial evidence was suppressed.
Chew expressed disappointment at Bredehoff’s claims, calling them “baseless” and an attack on the jurors’ integrity. He firmly refuted the allegation of suppressed evidence, emphasizing that both sides adhered to established rules of evidence.
Beyond the Money: Depp’s True Motivation?
While the jury awarded Depp a significant sum, Chew hinted that financial compensation was not Depp’s primary goal. He shared that Depp’s priority was reclaiming his life and reputation, suggesting that waiving the judgment might be a possibility.
Depp on the Stand: Preparation and Raw Emotion
Depp’s testimony was a pivotal moment in the trial, captivating public attention and igniting social media discussions. Chew admitted to pre-trial nerves, revealing that the team had meticulously prepared Depp for his time on the stand.
He emphasized that while the legal team offered guidance, Depp’s testimony was ultimately his own, reflecting his truthfulness and clear memory of the events.
Strategic Decisions: Camille Vasquez’s Role and the Kate Moss Moment
Chew revealed that choosing Vasquez to cross-examine Heard was a strategic decision, praising her exceptional performance. He also shared a personal anecdote about a moment that revealed his own emotional investment in the case: Heard’s mention of the unfounded Kate Moss rumor.
When Heard referenced the rumor, falsely implying a history of violence, Chew recalled experiencing a surge of emotion, later acknowledging he “lost his composure” because he knew Heard was not being truthful.
The Verdict: A Moment of Euphoria and Vindication
Chew described the moment the verdict was read as “emotional,” a culmination of their unwavering belief in Depp and their dedication to the case. He vividly depicted Depp’s reaction, describing him as looking “10 years younger” with the “weight of the world” lifted from his shoulders.
“He was euphoric,” Chew shared.
The Counterclaim and a Verdict “Overwhelmingly in Favor of Mr. Depp”
While Heard’s counterclaim resulted in a partial win for her legal team, Chew maintained that the verdict was ultimately a decisive victory for Depp. He highlighted the jury’s careful consideration of the evidence, acknowledging that their decision on the counterclaim did not diminish the overall outcome in Depp’s favor.
Beyond the Law: A Case of Human Connection
The Depp-Heard trial, with its celebrity status and sensational allegations, transcended the confines of a typical defamation case. Chew’s interview offered a glimpse into the human side of the legal proceedings, revealing the deep emotional investment and personal dedication of the lawyers involved.
His reflections provide a poignant reminder that beneath the legal arguments and courtroom drama, lie real people with real lives, forever marked by the experience.