Johnny Depp is known for turning down many cult roles. For example, he refused to accept the role of the animal-like mutant in the X-Men blockbuster. At the same time, Hugh Jackman, who agreed to take part in the project, got a lucky ticket because he became famous and has continued playing Wolverine for almost 2 decades.
Here is an interesting coincidence: the image of Captain Jack Sparrow, which is basically Depp’s calling card, was initially created for Hugh Jackman (Jackman = Jack). But few people knew him outside of his motherland, Australia, and Disney studio decided to offer the role of the pirate to the more recognizable Depp.
He didn't read the script beyond saying he didn't want to be on screen with a bunch of dwarfs.
Close friends said he never got over it, and essentially retired from acting.
That's strange considering Sean Connery did a lot of wacky off the wall films throughout his career. Consider Darby O'Gill and the Little People, Sir Gwain and the Green Knight (odd af) Time Bandits with actual little people. Those were some odd choices for the former Bond ha ha.