Johnny Depp has been making headlines again as he reenters the spotlight, recently sparking interest with his connection to Yulia Vlasova, a model 33 years his junior.
After his widely publicized defamation trial with ex-wife Amber Heard concluded in 2022, Depp shifted his attention to prioritizing his “health and wellbeing,” as shared by a source to PEOPLE in May 2024.
Currently residing in London, the actor has been “surrounding himself with good people,” focusing on artistic and musical pursuits. This year, he premiered his film Jeanne Du Barry at the Cannes Film Festival, where it received a seven-minute standing ovation.
Depp and Vlasova are in a casual relationship, avoiding traditional labels (@im__iuliia/Instagram)
In July 2024, a source revealed to PEOPLE that Depp and Vlasova were maintaining a “casual” relationship. They have avoided traditional labels, though they spend time together occasionally.
Before his association with Vlasova, Depp was linked to Joelle Rich, a lawyer who represented him in his U.K. libel case against The Sun. This earlier relationship, described as “not serious,” ended in November 2022.
So, who exactly is Yulia Vlasova? Here’s more about her background and her connection to Johnny Depp.
She’s a Model and Pageant Finalist
Vlasova has achieved recognition in modeling and was a finalist in the 2021 Miss Office beauty pageant based in Moscow. Her bio for the event mentions her studies at the University of West Bohemia and includes her motto: “Be, not seem to be.”
She Owns a Makeup and Hairstyling Studio
Beyond modeling, Vlasova is also an entrepreneur, running her Prague-based studio, S.He Studio, specializing in makeup and hairstyling services.
Seen With Depp at a Concert in Prague
In 2022, photos of Depp and Vlasova emerged from a concert in Prague honoring his late friend Jeff Beck. One image captured Depp kissing her cheek.
Her Public Admiration for Depp
In early 2024, Vlasova responded to an Instagram Q&A, naming Depp her favorite actor. She paired her response with a photo featuring both of their hands resting on each other’s legs, describing him as “incredibly talented and inspiring.”
Their Relationship Dynamics
Sources disclosed to PEOPLE in mid-2024 that the two share a casual connection without formal labels. Speculation about an engagement arose after Vlasova posted a plane photo featuring a ring emoji, coinciding with sightings of the pair at a London heliport.
However, a source clarified they are “absolutely not” engaged. Earlier in 2024, it was noted that Depp has been channeling his energy into new opportunities and personal growth.
His focus remains on the future, leaving little room to dwell on past challenges or prioritize dating. A source emphasized that Depp’s creative endeavors serve as positive distractions from darker periods in his life.
