(Cover) - EN Showbiz - Johnny Depp is reportedly ready to sign on to film the fifth instalment in the Pirates of the Caribbean franchise.

The 48-year-old actor has seemingly not been put off by the harsh reviews of his performance in Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides and was more encouraged by the film's phenomenal box office success.

As swashbuckling Jack Sparrow, Johnny has brought in over a $1 billion for Disney studios for the fourth movie alone.

The Wrap reports that before On Stranger Tides opened in theatres, screenwriter Terry Rossio had already submitted a script for the fifth film.

But Depp asked Disney to slow down the process so that he could have the opportunity to play other roles.

But after seeing the huge box office success of the latest film, Depp is said to be ready for another Pirates adventure.

The actor, who lives in France with girlfriend Vanessa Paradis and their two children, will be seen in other roles in the meantime. He has been linked to the film version of The Lone Ranger as well as a remake of The Thin Man.

The Pirates franchise makes up three out of the top 10 highest grossing movies of all time and has made a total of $3 billion around the world. (C) Cover Media