Johnny Depp scores huge pay day for Pirates 5

Johnny Depp as Captain Jack Sparrow. Photo / Supplied

Hollywood superstar Johnny Depp is set to earn one of his biggest pay packets yet following his split from Vanessa Paradis.

The eligible bachelor separated from his partner of 14 years earlier this year and is due to return back to the top of the actors' pay league.

Depp will do a fifth Pirates Of The Caribbean film and is expected to make around US$75 million (NZ$92m) from the latest instalment of the blockbuster franchise.

The massive earnings come as he is due to start giving out funds towards supporting his two children and his former girlfriend.

The job was reportedly one that was carefully considered so that the screen star's worth doesn't decrease.

A movie source revealed to The Sun newspaper: "Johnny is being very careful he does not sign on for too many films.

"He doesn't want to ruin his career with overexposure like John Travolta or Nic Cage did."

He has returned to the spotlight with his break up and rumoured romance with actress Amber Heard, meaning he can capitalise on the interest.

They added: "This huge deal for Pirates means he will be able to pick his other roles very carefully on the strength of their script rather than their salary."

- Bang! Showbiz