So Touching! Johnny Depp Honors Death of Terminally Ill ‘Pirates of The Caribbean’ Fan: ‘Sail on My Fellow Captain’!

Celebrated actor Johnny Depp bid a heartfelt farewell to his young fan, Kori Stovell, who tragically passed away at the age of 11. Kori, who suffered from a heart condition since birth, had been in palliative care after two unsuccessful heart transplants. Showing his deep respect for the young boy, Depp took to Instagram to commemorate Kori’s life.

In a poignant tribute, the 60-year-old actor shared a black and white video of Kori on his Instagram Story. Addressing him as “Captain Kori,” a moniker Depp had given the boy during one of their video calls with the Make-A-Wish Foundation last December, the actor expressed his admiration for Kori’s courage and resilience.

Depp’s earlier video for the 11-year-old had been uploaded to Kori’s YouTube channel, “Kraken The Box,” where the young Pirates of the Caribbean enthusiast shared his love for the films.

Despite Kori’s ongoing battle with hypoplastic left heart syndrome, which rendered the left side of his heart underdeveloped, he found solace in watching the Pirates movies during the numerous surgeries and recovery periods he endured, according to a source close to Depp.

Tragically, Kori’s body rejected both of the heart transplants he underwent in 2018 and 2020. His passing has left his family devastated, as noted in a statement by his mother Pixi, who expressed her gratitude for the overwhelming support they received throughout Kori’s journey.

While the loss has been shattering, Pixi mentioned that Kori’s final moments were peaceful. His bed was adorned with his beloved captain’s hat, and a pirate flag draped over him as he embarked on his ultimate adventure.

Johnny Depp’s heartfelt tribute to his young fan serves as a reminder of the impact one person can have on another’s life. Kori’s love for the Pirates franchise and his unwavering courage continue to inspire all those who knew him. Farewell, Captain Kori, your legacy lives on.