As Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom approaches its release later this year, there are still unanswered questions about Amber Heard’s future as Mera in the DCEU. Heard has faced backlash for her recent, high-profile defamation trial with ex-husband Johnny Depp.

Throughout the trial, she testified that she believed her contract with DC had been terminated and that her role in the sequel had been decreased.

Jason Momoa’s recent comments on The Tonight Show have also cast doubt on more productions. When he stated that Aquaman 2 will be his final appearance as Arthur Curry, Momoa hinted that the franchise might be rebooted.

Former DC head Walter Hamada suggested recasting Heard due to their claimed lack of chemistry. Fans have been clamoring for her removal from Aquaman 2 in a long-running petition due to allegations of domestic abuse.

As James Gunn and Peter Safran’s direction at DC shifts, several characters appear to be starting again rather than continuing from previous editions.

Gunn is reportedly considering casting new actors in traditional characters such as Aquaman, Batman, and Superman. Although it is expected that original cast members such as John Cena and Viola Davis would return, Heard’s story as Mera is unrelated to their ambitions.

If the franchise continues after the next film, recasting appears to be in the works due to fan reaction and the prospective reimagining of the character’s universe. Heard’s future involvement is unknown as DC searches for a fresh creative direction.