Neama Rahmani, a former federal prosecutor and legal analyst, tells EW the strategy is rooted in control.
By calling Depp, “they get to control the narrative a little bit more,” Rahmani says.
“This is Heard’s chance to catch up,” Rahmani says.
Amber Heard testifies in Johnny Depp defamation trial.ELIZABETH FRANTZ/POOL/AFP via Getty
“It’s a risky strategy, but they almost have nothing to lose,” she says.
“Their cross-examination of him early in the case did not go well for Amber,” Ahouraian adds.
It had already been framed by Depp’s narrative."
Johnny Depp testifies in defamation trial against Amber Heard in April 2022.STEVE HELBER/POOL/AFP via Getty Images
They could be hoping they can elicit some embarrassing admission from an emotionally drained and worn-out Johnny. "
He is intelligent enough to use that knowledge to his advantage."
Ahouraian expects Heard’s legal team to present questions “less permeable” to objections.
Amber Heard and Johnny Depp in 2015.Jason Kempin/Getty Images
They did not do a good job of this last time."
Depp is suing Heard for $50 millionover her 2018Washington Postop-eddetailing her experiences as a domestic abuse survivor.
If Heard is able to prove even one of the dozen events she’s describing, she wins."
It’s a PR play of trying to resurrect his career."
Folks [may] think she’s a victim but she’s exaggerating."
They can credibly argue that that’s consistent with the psychology of an abuse victim."
Lacy also points to trauma blocking, wherein victims of violence numb the pain and avoid the fear.
“The neural pathway involved here relates to a phenomenon called satiation,” she explains.
“The neurochemical bottom line is anxiety reduction…
The jury does not even need to find that Johnny physically abused Amber in order for her to win.
Proving malice can be difficult.
