Dressed as pirate Jack Sparrow, Johnny Depp surprised kids at a children’s hospital

Patients at BC Children’s Hopsital in Vancouver, Canada, recently received a delightful surprise when Johnny Depp showed up in character as Captain Jack Sparrow from “Pirates of the Caribbean.” During his five-hour visit, the actor met with nearly 70 children. Depp was in town to film a new movie, “Richard Says Goodbye.”

Depp’s appearance was a total shock to patients and their families, who were thrilled to see their favorite character from a Disney classic in the flesh. Decked out in his full costume from the film, Depp reportedly played every bit the part of a swashbuckling pirate during his lengthy visit and took his time with each child he interacted with.

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“He never broke character once and was so generous with his time,” Sarah Kertcher, whose 7-year-old daughter, Madison, got the chance to meet Depp, told CBS News. “He was truly here for the kids and it brought tears to my eyes to see how special he made each one feel.”

Depp posed for pictures with the children and signed autographs. He also paid one-on-one visits to patients in the oncology, general pediatrics and neurology wards. Watch Depp as he greets his unsuspecting young fans in this heartwarming video posted on the hospital’s Facebook page:

The video has been shared more than 8,000 times. Fans chimed in to express their admiration for Depp’s good deed.

“So cool for the children and their families…and the hospital staff too,” read one comment.

“Class act! Those children will never forget this,” said another.

This isn’t the first time Jack Sparrow has made an impromptu appearance. Back in 2015, Depp, again in character as Sparrow, visited another children’s hospital in Australia. Depp also happened upon some lucky fans visiting the “Pirates of the Caribbean” attraction in Disneyland last April.

Depp is just as grateful for his fans as they are for him. While accepting a People’s Choice Award earlier this year, Depp thanked his fans for their loyalty.

“I came here for one reason tonight and one reason only,” he said in his acceptance speech. “I came here for you, the people, who through whatever good times or bad, you know, have stood by me, trusted me. Thank you.”