Amber Heard’s sister says the “cards were stacked against us” in the multi-million dollar defamation trial against Johnny Depp, but said the truth would be “forever on the side” of the Aquaman star.
Whitney Henriquez said she would “always be proud” of her sister “for standing up for yourself” after the jury found mostly in Depp’s favour in a US court last week.
Heard, 36, said she was “heartbroken” and felt “disappointment beyond words” after Depp was awarded $15m (£11.9m) by the court.
The case had centred around a 2018 op-ed she wrote in the Washington Post, which his lawyers say falsely implied he had been physically and sexually abusive toward her while they were together.
Heard’s sister Ms Henriquez, who gave evidence during the six-week trial, wrote on Instagram: “I still stand with you, sissy.
“Yesterday, today and tomorrow I will always be proud of you for standing up for yourself, for testifying both here in Virginia and in the UK, and for being the voice of so many who can’t speak to the things that happen behind closed doors.
“We knew that this was going to be an uphill battle and that the cards were stacked against us.
“But you stood up and spoke out regardless. I am so honored to testify for you, and I would do it a million times over because I know what I saw and because the truth is forever on your side.”
She continued: “I’m so sorry that it wasn’t reflected in the decision made by this jury, but I will never give up on you, and neither will anyone who stands with you.
“Forever by your side.”
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Depp said he was “truly humbled” by the jury’s verdict, saying the allegations had a “seismic impact” on his life and career.
“From the very beginning, the goal of bringing this case was to reveal the truth, regardless of the outcome,” he said.
“Speaking the truth was something that I owed to my children and to all those who have remained steadfast in their support of me.
“I feel at peace knowing I have finally accomplished that.”
Depp has been spotted in various locations in the UK as he tours with musician Jeff Beck, most recently playing at Symphony Hall in Birmingham on Monday night.