Johnny Depp, Amber Heard fight reignites over charity payments

Johnny Depp and Amber Heard are scrapping again, despite settling their divorce more than a week ago. Photo/AP

Amber Heard has slammed Johnny Depp for giving her divorce settlement money directly to charity so he can claim charitable tax deductions.

The 30-year-old beauty announced earlier this month the US$7 million (NZ$9.6m) she would be receiving from her estranged spouse - who she split from in May amid accusations he was abusive - would be given to the Children's Hospital of Los Angeles and the American Civil Liberties Union.

The Pirates of the Caribbean star's representative confirmed he had sent "the first of multiple installments" to both organisations.

However, Heard's team have hit out at the donation as if Depp has sent it directly, he will get a charitable tax deduction, so should donate US$14 million (NZ$19m) to make it equal.

And the actress is also frustrated that the money isn't being given as a lump sum.

Her representatives told TMZ: "If Johnny wishes to change the settlement agreement, we must insist that he honour the full amount by donating $14m to charity, which after accounting for his tax deduction, is equal to his $7m payment obligation to Heard.

"We would also insist that the full amount be paid immediately and not drawn out over many years.

"Anything less would be a transparent attempt by Johnny's counsel, Laura Wasser and Patti Glaser, to reduce their client's true payment by half under the guise of newfound concern for charities that he has never previously supported."

The 53-year-old actor said he "deeply respects" Amber for giving the money away.

His spokesperson said: "Following Amber Heard's announcement that her divorce settlement was to be divided equally and gifted to Children's Hospital of Los Angeles and the American Civil Liberties Union, two exceptionally deserving and important charities, Johnny Depp has sent the first of multiple instalments of those monies to each charity in the name of Amber Heard, which when completed will honor the full amount of Ms Heard's pledge.

"Ms Heard's generosity in giving to these wonderful causes is deeply respected."

- Bang! Showbiz