Jacob Elordi’s Surprising Pirates of the Caribbean Cameo Before Euphoria
Think you know Jacob Elordi’s career? Before his Netflix hits and award-winning roles, he made his first on-screen appearance in a blockbuster you’d never expect. Discover the hidden start to his Hollywood journey and what’s next for the rising star.
Fans of Jacob Elordi are used to seeing him deliver powerful performances, whether it ’s in a period thriller or a romantic comedy. But even the most devoted followers might be surprised to learn where his acting journey began. Long before he became a household name, Elordi made his first appearance in a major Hollywood franchise, sharing the screen—albeit briefly—with Johnny Depp.
Early Days: A Hidden Role in a Blockbuster
Elordi’s debut came in the final installment of the Pirates of the Caribbean saga, Dead Men Tell No Tales, released in 2017. Though his part was uncredited, he played a British Redcoat, blending into the background of the film ’s action- packed scenes. The movie, directed by Joachim Rønning and Espen Sandberg, featured a star-studded cast including Depp, Javier Bardem, Kaya Scodelario, Kevin McNally, and Geoffrey Rush. Despite the small role, this experience marked Elordi’s first step into the world of big-budget filmmaking.
Dead Men Tell No Tales was produced by Walt Disney Pictures and Jerry Bruckheimer Films, hitting theaters on May 26, 2017. The film earned a 6.5/10 rating on IMDb and a mixed reception on Rotten Tomatoes, but for Elordi, it was the start of something much bigger.
Rising Star: Awards and Acclaim for Frankenstein
Fast forward to today, and Elordi’s career has taken a dramatic turn. His recent work in Frankenstein, a fresh take on the classic tale, has earned him critical acclaim and his first major award. At the 2026 Critics’ Choice Awards, Elordi took home the Best Supporting Actor trophy, standing out among a field of industry heavyweights. His portrayal of Frankenstein’s monster, opposite Oscar Isaac’s Victor Frankenstein, showcased his range and depth as an actor.
Other nominees in the category included Benicio del Toro and Sean Penn for One Battle After Another, Paul Mescal for Hamnet, Adam Sandler for Jay Kelly, and Stellan Skarsgård for Sentimental Value. Elordi’s win marked a significant milestone, cementing his place among Hollywood’s most promising talents.
New Directions: Wuthering Heights and Beyond
Elordi’s next project takes him into the world of gothic drama with Wuthering Heights. Starring alongside Margot Robbie, this adaptation promises a fresh perspective on the classic story. The film is structured in three parts, echoing the pacing of Greek tragedies, and delves into the intense, destructive relationship between Heathcliff and Catherine Earnshaw.
A passionate and tumultuous love story set against the backdrop of the Yorkshire moors, exploring the intense and destructive relationship between Heathcliff and Catherine Earnshaw.
Elordi steps into the role of Heathcliff, while Robbie portrays Catherine. The film is set for release on February 13, 2026, and is already generating buzz for its bold approach to a beloved novel.
For those interested in revisiting Elordi’s earliest work, Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Men Tell No Tales is available to stream on Disney+.