We recently told you about the departure of Disney studio chief Dick Cook, and that Johnny Depp admitted:

“There’s a fissure, a crack in my enthusiasm at the moment,”

Fans immediately made their feelings known and said that they would give up on the franchise if Depp wasn’t to star in it.

Apparently, Disney has other plans. According to a tip received by Cinema Blend, the studio is preparing to replace Depp if, or when he decides to abandon ship. While this may nor happen with Pirates 4 “On Stranger Tides,” because Disney is likely prepared to offer him virtually any amount of money that it will take to keep him aboard. The actor, who is said to be aware the last two movies “sucked,” will definitely not be sticking around for the fifth and sixth installments if the tipster is to be believed.

The plot of “On Stranger Tides,” which Geoffrey Rush claims may begin shooting next spring, could easily work as a changing of the guard.

It was widely believed until last week that “Tides”‘ story will come at least in part from Tim Powers’ novel, “On Stranger Tides,” which Disney owns the rights to. Powers confirmed last Monday that the fourth movie will “use elements” of the book.

Powers’ novel involves a pirate’s search for the Fountain of Youth. The story leaves room for a young newcomer, a character who aids the pirates in their search for the mythic location, to come aboard. While this could turn out to be Orlando Bloom’s role in the next movie, it seems possible that Disney might use Bloom’s character instead as a Sparrow replacement.