A surprise visit from Captain Jack Sparrow turned out to be a delightful treasure for young cancer patients.

While in Spain for the San Sebastian Film Festival, actor Johnny Depp dressed as his iconic character from the Pirates of the Caribbean series and paid a visit to Osakidetza Donostia University Hospital.

Johnny Depp first originated the role of Captain Jack Sparrow back in 2003’s The Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl. The swashbuckling pirate is known for his sense of humor and constant pursuit of thrill and adventure, but Depp has been known to take the character far beyond the big screen.

Depp spent time in the pediatric and oncology wards, engaging with thrilled children and their families. The actor is said to have remained in character for the duration of his visit, taking photos with patients and staff and lifting the spirits of those he interacted with that day.

A spokesperson said he was welcomed with great enthusiasm and affection by both the children admitted to the hospital, their families, and the professionals who were working at that time.

The hospital spokesperson described Depp’s visit as exciting, endearing and unforgettable.  “In a situation of illness, anyone, but especially children, greatly appreciates a distraction of this magnitude. It was a breath of fresh air, a magical moment in which they forgot about their illness and were transported to the magical world of pirates.”

The entire hospital team, along with the children and their families, expressed immense gratitude for Depp’s visit. “It has been a pleasure and an honor to have Jack Sparrow with us, a great pirate.”

Harpreet Pall, MD, chair of pediatrics at K. Hovnanian Children’s Hospital, noted that a celebrity visit can have a meaningful impact on patients’ emotional well-being. Some of the psychological benefits include improved self-esteem and confidence, a distraction from illness, improved optimism and a morale boost.

“A celebrity visit can create excitement and decrease some of the stress of being in the hospital. Such visits can also enhance children’s engagement with their healthcare team, leading to better adherence to treatment plans,” Dr. Pall said. “In addition, having a positive outlook and social interaction promotes healing for hospitalized children,” he added.