Scarlett Johansson has always been unabashedly herself. From indie films to blockbuster hits, the icon has proven time and time again that she’s a force to be reckoned with. However, this very ability of Johansson has also often been the source of many controversies she has participated in over the years. So when Hollywood’s quintessential “cool girl” publicly slammed co-worker James Franco for allegedly sexually harassing her, people praised her. But the praise quickly turned to boos after she came forward to support highly controversial character Woody Allen.
Her coming in support of Allen when many were cutting ties with him and her different stance not only confused people, but also caused them to consider her a “hypocrite”.
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Scarlett Johansson supports Woody Allen
One of Hollywood’s beloved figures who became controversial very quickly after the #Me too movement was Woody Allen. The award-winning director had a long list of disturbing allegations against him in stride, and so Scarlett Johansson supporting Allen led her to face a lot of backlash. In an interview with The Hollywood Reporter, the star revealed how she felt about the director. She says,
“I love Woody. I believe him and would work with him anytime,”
Johansson maintains that she believes Allen is innocent and stands by her choice to collaborate with him, pointing to the positive experiences she has had working on his films. Also, Allen and Johansson go way back and hence his personal opinion on this was also solely based on them.
Critics therefore argue that his defense was seen as inconsistent with his public statements about the importance of supporting and believing survivors of sexual misconduct. Since he was never charged with a crime, the actress also continued to support the director. Her action has further baffled netizens as the actress at the time she very recently slammed and harshly slammed her fellow actor for “pray over people” without power.
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Scarlett Johansson slammed James Franco before showing support for Woody Allen
During the actress’ speech at the 2018 Women’s March in Los Angeles, Scarlett Johansson brutally slammed James Franco for the same alleged allegations people had against Allen. In her speech she said,
“How could someone publicly support an organization that helps provide support to victims of sexual assault, while privately attacking people who have no power? – I want my pin back, by the way .”
Although she did not name anyone in particular, her representatives later confirmed that it was indeed Franco to whom she was referring. His support for Allen right after slamming Franco didn’t sit well with many, and so people started voicing their opinions on Twitter.
One wrote,
“I have no respect for her, and I don’t know why Hollywood continues to reward her problematic behavior.”
While another wrote,
“She is the worst in every way. His privilege knows no bounds.
Another shared a similar sentiment regarding the topic,
“Didn’t she publicly denounce her ex-boyfriend James Franco DURING A WOMEN’S MARCH after hearing from a third party that he was sexually harassing another woman? But she fucking defends Woody Allen? it’s so terrible it’s funny”
While Allen’s case revolves around a high-profile family dispute, Franco’s allegations stem from several women who have come forward with allegations of misconduct. Thus, the apparent disparity in his responses may raise valid concerns, it is essential to consider the complex circumstances surrounding these controversies. Consequently, Scarlett Johansson’s contrasting positions regarding Woody Allen and James Franco have drawn scrutiny and accusations of hypocrisy.
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Source: People and The Hollywood Reporter
