When Johnny Depp planted kisses on men during television appearances, the world took notice. These moments, steeped in his signature blend of charm and unpredictability, caught audiences off-guard and sparked conversations that rippled across social media and entertainment circles. Known for a career that thrives on defying conventions, Depp’s playful gestures—whether on late-night talk shows or in cinematic roles—have cemented his status as Hollywood’s enigmatic wildcard. But what drove these surprising kisses, and why do they continue to captivate fans and critics alike?

The Jimmy Kimmel Kisses: A Playful Bromance

The most prominent instances of Depp kissing men on television occurred during his appearances on Jimmy Kimmel Live! between 2013 and 2017. Depp, a frequent guest on the show, developed a lighthearted rapport with host Jimmy Kimmel, often marked by flirtatious banter and theatrical gestures. In one memorable 2013 episode, Depp greeted Kimmel with not one but three kisses—two on the cheeks and one on the lips—leaving the host flustered and the audience roaring with laughter. The moment was spontaneous, with Depp leaning into the act as if it were part of a scripted comedy sketch. Kimmel, ever the good sport, played along, joking about the unexpected affection and fanning himself in mock overwhelm.

This wasn’t a one-off. In 2014, Depp returned to the show, fresh off his engagement announcement to Amber Heard, and Kimmel teased him about their “chemistry” from the previous year. Depp, never one to shy away from a joke, applied lip balm dramatically before leaning in for another kiss, this time on Kimmel’s cheek. The audience erupted, and the moment became a viral talking point. By 2015 and 2016, the kisses had become a running gag, with Depp playfully dropping a handkerchief to lure Kimmel closer or surprising him mid-segment. In a 2017 appearance, Depp sealed the bromance with another smooch, prompting Kimmel to laughingly note that he’d gotten more kisses from Depp than in his entire high school years.

These interactions weren’t just about shock value. They showcased Depp’s ability to blur the lines between performance and reality, a hallmark of his career. His kisses with Kimmel were less about romance and more about a theatrical rebellion against the stoic masculinity often expected of leading men. By embracing these moments with humor and confidence, Depp challenged societal norms, endearing himself to fans who admired his refusal to conform.

The Javier Bardem Kiss: Art Meets Authenticity

Beyond the talk show stage, Depp’s on-screen kiss with Javier Bardem in the 2000 film Before Night Falls added another layer to the conversation. In the movie, Depp played Bon Bon, a drag queen, opposite Bardem’s Reinaldo Arenas, a gay Cuban poet. Their kiss, a pivotal moment in the film, was both tender and raw, reflecting the emotional depth of the characters’ connection. During a promotional interview years later, while discussing his work on Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Men Tell No Tales with Bardem, Depp revealed that he considered this kiss his favorite on-screen moment, a statement that raised eyebrows and fueled headlines.

The revelation was unexpected, given Depp’s long history of on-screen romances with leading actresses like Winona Ryder, Angelina Jolie, and Penélope Cruz. Yet, his choice to highlight a same-sex kiss spoke volumes about his commitment to authentic storytelling. Before Night Falls was a bold project for Depp, who has often gravitated toward unconventional roles—think Edward Scissorhands, Sweeney Todd, or Captain Jack Sparrow. By embracing the role of Bon Bon and celebrating the kiss with Bardem, Depp signaled his willingness to take risks, even in an industry where such choices could invite scrutiny.

A Career of Unpredictability

Depp’s kisses, whether on Kimmel’s stage or in a critically acclaimed film, are a microcosm of his career’s defining trait: unpredictability. From his early days as a teen heartthrob on 21 Jump Street to his transformation into one of Hollywood’s most versatile actors, Depp has consistently defied expectations. He turned down blockbuster roles in favor of quirky, character-driven projects, collaborating with directors like Tim Burton and Gore Verbinski to create iconic figures that linger in pop culture. His portrayal of Captain Jack Sparrow, a swaggering, eyeliner-wearing pirate, redefined the action hero, blending campy humor with genuine pathos.

This unpredictability extends to his public persona. Depp’s off-screen life—marked by high-profile relationships, legal battles, and a rock-star lifestyle—has kept him in the headlines as much as his films. His kisses with men on television fit seamlessly into this narrative of defiance. In an era when male celebrities were rarely seen engaging in such playful or intimate gestures publicly, Depp’s actions felt like a statement. They challenged the rigid boundaries of gender norms and celebrated a fluidity that resonated with younger, more progressive audiences.

The Public’s Reaction: Buzz and Backlash

The public’s response to Depp’s kisses was as varied as his career. On social media platforms, fans celebrated the Kimmel moments as peak Depp—charming, cheeky, and unafraid to poke fun at himself. Compilation videos of the kisses circulated online, with fans joking about Kimmel’s “luck” and praising Depp’s charisma. Some saw the kisses as a nod to inclusivity, especially in the context of the 2013 Supreme Court decision striking down the Defense of Marriage Act, which Kimmel playfully referenced during one episode. For many, these moments were a refreshing departure from the often-stuffy late-night talk show format.

However, not everyone was amused. Critics and conservative commentators questioned whether Depp’s actions were genuine or merely attention-grabbing stunts. Some argued that the kisses trivialized same-sex affection, reducing it to a punchline for laughs. Others pointed to Depp’s personal life, particularly his tumultuous divorce from Amber Heard and subsequent legal battles, as evidence of a man seeking to distract from controversy. These criticisms, while vocal, were overshadowed by the overwhelmingly positive response from fans who saw the kisses as an extension of Depp’s free-spirited persona.

The Before Night Falls kiss, by contrast, received more nuanced attention. Film critics praised the authenticity of the scene, noting Depp’s commitment to a challenging role. However, when Depp named it his favorite kiss in a later interview, some fans were surprised, expecting him to choose a more conventional romantic moment. The choice sparked discussions about representation in Hollywood, with some applauding Depp for normalizing same-sex intimacy and others debating whether his comments carried the same weight coming from a straight actor.

Cultural Significance: Breaking Barriers with Charm

Depp’s kisses, both on television and in film, carry cultural weight beyond their immediate entertainment value. In the early 2010s, when the Kimmel kisses began, public displays of affection between men were still rare on mainstream television, especially from A-list stars. Depp’s willingness to engage in these moments—whether as a joke or a genuine expression of camaraderie—helped normalize such interactions. His playful demeanor made the kisses accessible, inviting audiences to laugh while subtly challenging preconceived notions of masculinity.

The Before Night Falls kiss, meanwhile, contributed to a broader conversation about queer representation in cinema. Released in 2000, the film was a bold exploration of identity and repression, and Depp’s participation lent it mainstream visibility. His later comments about the kiss underscored the importance of authentic storytelling, encouraging actors to embrace roles that push boundaries.

Why Everyone’s Talking

Johnny Depp’s kisses with men on television and in film are more than fleeting moments of shock or humor. They reflect a career built on taking risks, defying norms, and captivating audiences with a blend of charm and unpredictability. Whether locking lips with Jimmy Kimmel in a burst of late-night spontaneity or sharing a tender moment with Javier Bardem on the big screen, Depp has proven that he’s not afraid to surprise—or to make people talk. These moments, steeped in his larger-than-life persona, continue to resonate, reminding us why Depp remains one of Hollywood’s most enduring and unpredictable stars.

As fans revisit these iconic scenes, the buzz shows no signs of fading. Depp’s ability to keep us guessing, to turn a simple kiss into a cultural moment, is a testament to his unique place in entertainment. And in a world that often demands conformity, his defiance feels more relevant than ever.