(Credits: Far Out / Dreamworks)
Mon 22 December 2025 20:15, UK
In the glitzy world of Hollywood, where box office numbers often dictate an actor’s standing, Scarlett Johansson has carved out a unique niche. Despite the expectation that the highest-paid and top-grossing actors would be devoid of controversy, Johansson has consistently bucked this trend. As of now, she stands as the highest-grossing leading actor in cinema history, with her films collectively grossing over $15 billion. This remarkable achievement makes her the only performer to cross this impressive threshold, a feat that speaks volumes about her star power.
However, it’s essential to note that much of Johansson’s success can be attributed to her pivotal role in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU). While she has starred in numerous blockbusters, many of these films featured Robert Downey Jr. as the first-billed actor. Despite this, Johansson’s cumulative earnings place her among the top ten highest-grossing stars of all time, whether in leading or supporting roles. Her career, which began in the early 1990s with a feature debut in Rob Reiner’s critically panned film, *North*, has been marked by both triumph and turbulence.
Johansson’s journey has not been without its controversies. She has often found herself at the center of public scrutiny, with several incidents suggesting that she may be more prone to controversy than her A-list peers. In an interview with *The Gentlewoman*, she candidly acknowledged this aspect of her career, stating, “Yeah, I’ve made a career out of it. I’m going to have opinions about things, because that’s just who I am.” This self-awareness hints at a deeper understanding of the complexities of fame and public perception.
One of the most notable controversies surrounding Johansson was the backlash she faced for her role in the 2017 film *Ghost in the Shell*. The casting of a white actress in a lead role originally intended for an Asian character sparked accusations of whitewashing. The negativity surrounding the film overshadowed its release, and the controversy lingered long after, often eclipsing any discussion of the film’s artistic merits.
In the wake of the Harvey Weinstein scandal, Johansson found herself in another precarious situation. Following revelations about Weinstein’s misconduct, several actors disclosed that he had pressured them into wearing outfits designed by his then-wife, Georgina Chapman. Johansson’s decision to be the first major Hollywood figure to wear one of Chapman’s designs publicly, just months after the divorce announcement, drew significant criticism and raised questions about her judgment.
Perhaps the most contentious moment in Johansson’s career came with the *Rub & Tug* incident. Initially set to portray Duane ‘Tex’ Gill, a transgender man, Johansson faced immense backlash for taking on the role. While she initially defended her decision, she later admitted that the situation was “mishandled” and “tone-deaf.” Her comments about the nature of acting—claiming that she should be allowed to play any person, tree, or animal—further fueled the fire, leading to widespread criticism.
On a different note, Johansson’s legal battle against Disney over the release strategy of *Black Widow* was met with a more favorable reception. Many applauded her for standing up against one of the most powerful conglomerates in the entertainment industry. However, her repeated defense of Woody Allen, a filmmaker who has faced significant backlash and disownment from many in the industry, has drawn ire and raised eyebrows among fans and critics alike.
While Johansson may not be the most controversial figure in cinema history, her career has certainly been marked by a series of contentious moments. Her candid acknowledgment of these controversies suggests a level of self-awareness that is rare in Hollywood. As she continues to navigate the complexities of fame, it remains to be seen how her legacy will be shaped by both her remarkable achievements and the controversies that have accompanied her journey.
