Hollywood star Johnny Depp was left “dumbfounded” after visiting the birthplace of renowned Welsh writer Dylan Thomas in Swansea.
Depp, who has been a fan of Thomas since childhood, had the opportunity to walk in the footsteps of his literary idol and see where it all began. The visit took place before Depp’s gig with his band Hollywood Vampires at the Swansea Arena.
Depp said has been a huge Dylan Thomas fan ever since his brother bought him a copy of ‘Portrait of the Artist as a Young Dog’, a collection of short stories by the author.
“And then, of course, all the poetry, all of the stuff that just takes your head apart,” he added.
Perhaps Wales’s best-known writer, Thomas was born in 1914 in the front room of the house and is known for his poems, short stories, and plays.
During the visit, Depp expressed his awe at being in the room where Thomas’ masterpiece ‘Under Milk Wood’ was conceived, stating that it was a lot to take in.
The house, located in Uplands, Swansea, has been meticulously restored to its original appearance when Thomas resided there. It serves as a living museum run by volunteers, celebrating the life and works of the celebrated poet and writer.
Depp was given a tour by owner Geoff Haden, who showed him a restored window that overlooks Swansea Bay and inspired Thomas to write about “ships sailing across rooftops.”
The visit had a profound impact on Depp, who has been inspired by Thomas’ work throughout his career. He wrote in the visitors’ book before leaving, “All respect always, Johnny.”
Depp told news channel Nation Cymru: “During this visit you get to see where all of his thoughts came from, it’s a lot to take in.”
He added: “I’m still floating a little, having been in the room where Under Milk Wood began.”
Volunteers at the house described Depp as “amazed” at the small size of Thomas’ bedroom, where much of his writing took place.
“The visit had an obvious and a profound effect on Johnny,” said volunteer Sarah Haden.
“In his words he was ‘dumbfounded’ to be able to walk in Dylan’s footsteps and see where it all began. He was warm and generous with his enthusiasm for the birthplace and for Dylan.”
*Story from our August 2023 edition
Anglo&Celtic 