Johnny Depp defends Pirates movies

Hollywood heartthrob Johnny Depp says his decision to continue the Pirates of the Caribbean franchise was not motivated by money, rather he 'loves' his swashbuckling character.

Hollywood heartthrob Johnny Depp says his decision to continue the

Pirates of the Caribbean

franchise was not motivated by money, rather he "loves" his swashbuckling character.

The 46-year-old actor has played Captain Jack Sparrow in three of the movies, and is preparing to start filming a fourth instalment,

Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides

, this summer,

Contactmusic

reported.

Depp has brushed off accusations he has "sold out" by appearing in a series of blockbuster sequels, insisting he has a genuine affection for the adventure films.

"I can't wait to get back in costume. Some people will say, 'Aha Depp sold out by doing the sequels.' But it was never an issue for me. I love Captain Jack so much I'd do Pirates 7 if they asked," Depp said.