In a revelation that has sent shockwaves through Hollywood, actor Corey Feldman has made startling claims about Johnny Depp’s early career struggles during filming of the 1993 drama What’s Eating Gilbert Grape. The former child star dropped the bombshell during a recent appearance on the Podcrushed podcast, alleging the now-iconic actor faced temporary dismissal from the project due to substance-related issues.
According to Feldman, who played supporting role Mikey in the critically acclaimed film, Depp’s involvement in the production nearly derailed early on. “Johnny came in as a full-blown junkie and got fired,” Feldman stated bluntly during the podcast recording. “Then he got his act together and they brought him back.” The 52-year-old actor offered no specific timeline for these alleged events but insisted he witnessed concerning behavior firsthand during production.
The entertainment industry has responded to these claims with measured skepticism. As of publication time, representatives for Depp have not issued any formal response to Feldman’s allegations. Similarly, Paramount Pictures—the studio behind the film—has declined to comment on what would constitute internal personnel matters from three decades ago. Director Lasse Hallström, who guided Depp to one of his earliest dramatic successes, has also remained silent on the claims.
Historical records show no previous mention of such production difficulties surrounding the film, which ultimately earned Depp widespread critical praise and launched his reputation as a serious actor beyond his 21 Jump Street heartthrob status. The project holds particular significance in Depp’s filmography as it marked his first collaboration with Leonardo DiCaprio, who earned his first Oscar nomination for his portrayal of Arnie Grape.
Feldman’s decision to revisit these allegations now raises questions about timing, coming just as Depp experiences a career resurgence following his high-profile legal battles with Amber Heard. The Lost Boys actor has been both praised and criticized for his willingness to make controversial claims about Hollywood figures, having previously made headlines for his statements about child abuse in the entertainment industry.
Industry analysts note this revelation—if substantiated—would represent a previously unknown chapter in Depp’s well-documented struggles with substance abuse. The actor has been open about his past addictions in various interviews throughout his career, though he has never mentioned any production issues specific to Gilbert Grape.
The film community appears divided on how to interpret Feldman’s claims. Some view it as an important revelation about the challenges young actors face in Hollywood, while others question the relevance of dredging up decades-old allegations about a performer who has since become one of cinema’s most recognizable stars.
As this story develops, all eyes remain on whether any principal figures from the Gilbert Grape production will come forward to confirm or deny Feldman’s account. For now, the allegations stand as another intriguing footnote in Hollywood’s long history of behind-the-scenes drama.