Depp Confirmed to Star in "Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides"

Golden Globe award-winning actor Johnny Depp confirmed that he will be starring in the fourth installment of Disney's remarkably popular film franchise, "Pirates of the Caribbean", according to The Associated Press. "Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides" is currently scheduled to hit theatres in the summer of 2011.

At The Walt Disney Co. D23 Expo, which took place in Anaheim, California earlier today, Depp made a surprise appearance and stunned the fans in attendance by sailing on stage while in character. Walt Disney Studios Chairman Dick Cook announced the news that Depp would continue his role as the film's lead as approximately 5,000 people in attendance gave their overwhelming approval.

As one of the most successful film franchises in movie history, "Pirates of the Caribbean" has grossed over $1 billion in domestic box-office sales, according to The Los Angeles Times. During a portion of the D23 Expo where upcoming Disney films were being introduced, Cook announced that Depp will be starring in "The Lone Ranger" as well as "Alice in Wonderland".

Today's Walt Disney Co. D23 Expo featured appearances from prominent celebrities such as John Travolta and Nicholas Cage, as well as a live musical performance from Miley Cyrus.