Actress Scarlett Johansson has decided to do a little introspection into her career and has taken a look back at the way she has evolved over the years, and the way the industry has changed her perceptions as well.
After doing the self-analysis, she has come up with this conclusion — she should be allowed to play any role she wants.
She stated: “Today there’s a lot of emphasis and conversation about what acting is and who we want to see represent ourselves on screen.”
This has been in response to recent criticism towards her decision to accept the role of a transgender man in an upcoming film.
Johansson was set to appear in Rub & Tug, a biographical film, where she had the role of Dante “Tex” Gill, a transgender man who ran a massage parlor and prostitution ring in the 1970s and 1980s.
Many were critical of the actress for accepting the role, while others claimed that she had done nothing wrong, and deserved to express herself in any way she saw fit.
Note that the negative comments and mockery seem to be in the majority by a long shot, as most people were against Johansson’s decision to accept the role.
However, the decision sparked a serious debate in the public sphere, and many have started to question the limits of what is appropriate in the circumstances like these. She eventually dropped out of the project after the backlash.
On Scarlett Johansson and the representation debate. #BetweenTheScenes pic.twitter.com/uxBw99Jfyd
— The Daily Show (@TheDailyShow) July 18, 2019
The Girl with a Pearl Earring star attempted to defend or clarify her remarks in a new interview where she said: “I recognize that in reality, there is a widespread discrepancy amongst my industry that favors Caucasian, cisgendered actors, and that not every actor has been given the same opportunities that I have been privileged to. I continue to support, and always have, diversity in every industry and will continue to fight for projects where everyone is included.”
Some film buffs say that it is true that the industry has changed a lot over the years, and not all of those changes have been for the better. However, there does seem to be a noticeable trend towards more equality and acceptance.
This could also be the problem Johansson is facing right now, as some people seem to suggest that financial reasons and name recognition might behind those decisions. Is she to blame for getting the parts? Are the producers and casting directors more at fault?
Hollywood is doing a bit to address issues of diversity and representation, some are wondering if Johansson will become a true ally in this fight.
On a personal note, she has debuted a massive 11-carat diamond engagement ring from Saturday Night Live comedian Colin Jost. Some say she might have used the engagement news to cover the diversity PR nightmare.
