Scarlett Johansson has opened up about her decision to publicly support filmmaker Woody Allen, following sexual abuse allegations made against him by his daughter, Dylan Farrow.
Standing by Controversial Beliefs
In a recent interview with The Telegraph, the 41-year-old actor reflected on the potential fallout from her divisive stance. Johansson was one of the few high-profile figures in Hollywood to defend Allen in 2019, amidst the renewed scrutiny brought by the #MeToo movement.
When questioned on whether her alliance with the controversial director cost her personal relationships or professional opportunities, Johansson admitted the full impact was unclear. "I guess it’s hard to know. You never know what the domino effect is, exactly," she stated.
She credited her mother for instilling a strong sense of personal conviction. "My mom always encouraged me to be myself, [to see] that it’s important to have integrity, and stand up for what you believe in," Johansson explained.
A Matured Perspective
However, the Black Widow star also indicated that her perspective has evolved with time and maturity. She emphasised the value of discernment in public discourse.
"At the same time, I think it’s also important to know when it’s not your turn," Johansson added. "I don’t mean that you should silence yourself. I mean sometimes it’s just not your time. And that’s something I’ve understood more as I’ve matured."
Johansson has a professional history with Allen, having starred in three of his films: Match Point, Scoop, and Vicky Christina Barcelona.
The Long-Running Allegations and Fallout
The controversy stems from allegations first made in 1992. Allen's adopted daughter, Dylan Farrow, detailed accusations in a 2014 New York Times open letter, alleging he molested her when she was seven years old. Allen has consistently and vehemently denied all claims.
He asserted that Dylan was coached by her mother, actor Mia Farrow, as retaliation following their acrimonious split. An investigation was conducted in the 1990s, but no criminal charges were ever filed against Allen.
In 2019, Johansson told The Hollywood Reporter, "I love Woody. I believe him, and I would work with him anytime." She noted having direct conversations with him where he maintained his innocence.
While some former collaborators like Diane Keaton and Javier Bardem also voiced support, the allegations and Allen's subsequent marriage to Soon-Yi Previn—another of Mia Farrow's adopted daughters—led many other A-list celebrities to distance themselves, vowing never to work with him again.
