Johnny Depp buys Amber Heard a horse

Actor Johnny Depp recently purchased a horse for his friend, actress Amber Heard.

Heard, 26, has expressed her admiration for Depp, 49, since they acted together in The Rum Diary (2011). Rumors of the two dating began emerging since the film’s release.

“He's absolutely amazing, as far as his talent and him as a person,” she said.

Depp has been riding horses himself lately while shooting The Lone Ranger, in which he plays Tonto.

He announced his separation from girlfriend Vanessa Paradis on Tuesday after 14 years. They have reportedly been living separately, and have not been seen in public together for months. They have two children: Lily, 11, and Jack, 9.

Heard previously dated photographer Tasya van Ree for several years.

Lately, however, rumors of Depp and Heard dating have increased. Heard has reportedly been a frequent visitor to the Ranger set in New Mexico.

The two were reportedly seen in Las Vegas together in May.

The new Ranger will reportedly have a more independent Tonto opposite Armie Hammer’s title character. Helena Bonham Carter and Barry Pepper co-star in the film.

It is set for release July 3, 2013.

Heard is currently filming Machete Kills for director Robert Rodriguez.