Can you spot the real Jack Sparrow?
Lookalike tells us what life is like being Johnny Depp’s double
PROFESSIONAL pirate Simon Newton has a swashbuckling CV. As a Jack Sparrow lookalike and official photo double for Johnny Depp, his career has taken him around the world.
Here he answers our questions about doubling as the notorious captain of the Black Pearl…
When did you first realise you looked like Jack Sparrow?
It happened accidentally – I was supposed to dress up as a musketeer for a party but, growing the silly facial hair, I ended up more like Captain Jack.
How long does it take you to get ready in the morning?
I usually allow myself an hour to turn into Captain Jack, but after more than 10 years doing it, I’m getting quicker.
Do you wear a wig or is that your own hair? Do you have a real gold tooth?
I am very glad it is a wig – when it is hot it is very nice to be able to take it off! I do have special gold covers that clip over my teeth for performing.
Have you met Johnny Depp?
I used to see him every day when I was his double. He was always nice to me, even if we didn’t have much time.
How did you become the official photo double for Pirates the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides?
I had to go to an audition. Everyone had to line up and do various things like walk up and down and luckily I ended up being selected. One of the most important things to be a photo double, though, is to be a similar size. I am only 1/4 inch taller than Johnny Depp so we are very close in height.
Is it dangerous being Jack Sparrow?
I am part of a stunt team that performs live action sword fights – this can be very dangerous which is why we practise a lot. For us, the fight is more like a dance, but with pointy metal swords!
What’s the best place you’ve worked?
I have been lucky to perform all over the world, although I am only there for a short length of time. One of my very first events was in the actual Caribbean though, which is hard to beat.
How does it feel to pretend to be someone you’re not?
Because I have been doing it for so long, it is like turning a switch in my brain. Maybe in 10 years’ part of me will completely become Jack Sparrow!