Johnny Depp was the surprise special guest at the 9th Annual Johnny Ramone Tribute in L.A. last night (Aug 18).

The evening, which took place at the Hollywood Forever Cemetery, was in celebration of the life of the late Ramones guitarist and was organised by Ramone’s wife Linda.

The main attraction of the evening was a screening of 1990’s cult classic Cry-Baby, which was introduced by director John Waters. The film follows teen rebel ‘Cry-Baby’ Wade Walker (Depp) and his gang of ‘Drapes’ in 1950’s Baltimore. Following the screening, Depp took to the stage alongside co-stars Traci Lords, Joe Dallesandro, Ricki Lake and James Intveld for a Q&A, moderated by Sex Pistols guitarist Steve Jones.

Linda Ramone also spoke of the relevance of the event in relation to the legendary guitarist. “This event is something Johnny would have loved. He was such a collector – autographs, movie posters, baseball cards, you name it. Having these amazing autograph signings and screening cult films – this is what Johnny was all about,” she said. “His legacy was important to him, and it’s the most important thing to me to do this event in the honor of my husband.”

Burlesque star Dita Von Teese was also on hand to introduce the film, whilst a number of Ramone’s musical friends were also in attendance.

Earlier this year, Linda Ramone also revealed that she was in talks to turn The Ramones’ story into a film.

Although it’s yet to be decided whether the biopic will focus on the band’s rise to fame in the 70’s or Johnny Ramone’s biography Commando, Linda has stated that “I will do one no matter what”.