Johnny Depp jokes he needs work as he appears as Moonman at MTV VMAs

Johnny Depp made a surprise appearance at the MTV VMAs last night (28 August).

In a series of pre-recorded bits, the actor was seen dressed as the channel's iconic Moonman logo, offering a few pithy remarks between the ad breaks.

With his face superimposed on the character's helmet, the 59-year-old joked that he was in desperate need of some work following on from his defamation trial with ex-wife Amber Heard.

At one point, he said: "I just want you guys to know that I'm available for birthdays, Bar Mitzvahs, Bat Mitzvahs, weddings, wakes, any old thing you need."

Adding: "Oh, I'm also a dentist."

Then, referencing his court case, he quipped: "And you know what? I needed the work."

It marked Depp's first major public appearance since he won his high profile trial earlier this year.

And the star's fans were very excited to see him back on their TV screens.

One user said: "Johnny Depp mocking being cancelled is hilarious. Tomorrow the salt will flow."

Another commented: "Johnny Depp appearing the way he did is actually really iconic."

"Johnny Depp out here at the VMA’s taking the piss out of all the trolls and everyone else that made some b****y remark about him… and I’m f**king loving it!"

While another added: "Johnny Depp at the VMA’s simply show’s he doesn’t give a f**k about the trolls."

Not everyone was so happy to see him back, though.

Many were outraged by the fact he was allowed to appear at the star-studded event despite the allegations of abuse made against him.

One critic said: "these Johnny Depp slots in the VMA awards literally add nothing but an uncomfortable silence and an ugly ass jumpscare."

Another said: "I can’t stop laughing, this is what his fans called 'Johnny Depp’s big comeback'."

"Honestly, f**k the VMA’s for including Johnny Depp," a third put. "It makes me sick. the industry hasn’t changed at all. Not surprised, but still so disappointed."

While another added: "Not watching the VMAs cause i may get jump scared by Johnny Depp's nasty ass."