There has been significant behind-the-scenes turmoil during the production of Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom, a new report from Variety alleges. Documents, first brought to light on Reddit and originating from Amber Heard's therapist during her highly-publicized legal battle with ex-husband Johnny Depp, paint a picture of a hostile set environment, with allegations that Jason Momoa frequently arrived late, intoxicated, and "dressed like Depp," while expressing a desire to have Heard ousted from the film.

　　Reportedly, Depp's supporters covered the court fees to obtain documents from Heard's therapist, Dr. Dawn Hughes, which include notes stating, "Jason said he wanted me fired… Jason Drunk--late on set. Dressing like Johnny. Has all the rings too."

　　A DC spokesperson vouched for Momoa's professionalism, stating, "Jason Momoa conducted himself in a professional manner at all times on the set of Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom." Contrary to the allegations, an insider defended Momoa, stating that he did not arrive drunk on set and that "he has always dressed in that bohemian style."

　　Both Heard and Momoa declined to comment. In 2022, Heard claimed that her role and participation in the Aquaman sequel had been significantly "pared down," which then-DC Films chief Walter Hamada denied. Additionally, Momoa and director James Wan at the time reportedly presented a united front to prevent Heard from being removed from the film entirely. According to testimony from entertainment industry consultant Kathryn Arnold last year, Wan and Momoa were both "committed to her" and were "adamant she was in the film."

　　However, Hughes' notes present a different picture, with Heard feeling unsupported and isolated by Wan. According to her notes: "He raised his voice @ me. 'I can't even post about Aquaman.' Made it feel like it was my fault. I said 'I'm sorry,'... Nobody could take selfies with me on set given blackout."

　　A DC spokesperson responded, "James is known for treating members of his cast and crew with the utmost respect and for fostering a positive, collaborative environment on set--the Aquaman films were no exception."

　　Variety is also reporting that Warner Bros. had contemplated firing Heard from the Aquaman sequel even before Depp filed his lawsuit, citing a perceived lack of chemistry between Heard and Momoa. Now, others dispute this narrative, alleging that the studio and Wan were unsupportive of Heard due to the impact of her court case on the film's promotional efforts.

　　According to the report, Warner Bros. decided to retain Heard only after receiving a stern warning from her ex-boyfriend, Elon Musk, who via a litigator threatened a "scorched-earth letter to Warner Bros. threatening to burn the house down" if Heard wasn't brought back for the sequel. Musk also declined to comment.

　　Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom is set for release in the United States on December 20.

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