Scarlett Johansson reveals how she fought her way out of the Hollywood ‘sex symbol’ box: ‘I was cast for my desirability – that’s shifted’

by

Scarlett Johansson shares her journey of breaking free from being stereotyped as a sex symbol in Hollywood, explaining that she used to be selected primarily based on her physical appearance.

At age 40, the actress famously known as the Black Widow reflects that following her rise to stardom in Lost in Translation, she was frequently cast in roles that primarily focused on her attractiveness. However, she notes that this trend is gradually changing now.

She shared with The Sunday Times: ‘In my younger days, many of the roles I pursued or were offered often focused on a character’s attractiveness, male perspective, or a narrative centered around men. This happens less frequently now, although there seems to be a change in the air.’

Scarlett pointed out that things have shifted significantly for younger females today. Not only has the communication evolved, but there are now many more prominent women serving as role models in influential roles.

The shift hasn’t just been in her scripts, it’s in Scarlett’s whole career. 

Previously recognized by the Oscars twice for her roles in romantic comedies such as “He’s Just Not That Into You”, she has since transitioned to more intense performances in films like “Marriage Story”, “Under the Skin”, and a Marvel series that contributed to her status as the highest-grossing actress, having earned over $14 billion at the box office.

Scarlett initially faced being stereotyped in her roles, but she chose not to conform. She openly admitted rejecting roles she deemed unsatisfying and patiently sought opportunities that allowed her to demonstrate her versatility beyond being merely visually appealing. Despite the fear of becoming obsolete at any instant, she held onto her ambition.

Speaking about her breakthrough role, she admitted: ‘I simply waited. I needed to grow accustomed to the concept that it might require patience. It’s challenging for a young actor, but since I didn’t have kids back then, I could focus solely on my career.’

However, Scartlett’s unyielding spirit bore fruit as she made her directorial debut this year with Eleanor the Great, a drama that draws inspiration from her Jewish ancestors and their journey fleeing Poland and Russia. This film, which was premiered at Cannes, received an outstanding four-star review from The Times.

Behind the camera, Scarlett has become a mother of two – Rose, aged 10, whom she shares with her former spouse Romain Dauriac, and Cosmo, who is 3 years old, from her relationship with Saturday Night Live actor, Colin Jost.

Scarlett will soon appear in the highly anticipated summer movie, Jurassic World: Rebirth, opening in theaters on July 2nd. This film is expected to be the must-see event of the summer season.

Starring alongside Scarlett is Wicked and Bridgerton’s Jonathan Bailey.

In the second preview for the forthcoming movie, we find Scarlett playing the role of Zora Bennett, an accomplished undercover agent specializing in covert operations.

As they make their way towards the tropical island, which has appeared in earlier movies, she is clearly heard issuing warnings to the others.

‘The theme park owners did experimental work,’ she says. ‘Leaving only the worst ones here.’

To accomplish the highly classified operation, it’s essential that they securely acquire and return with the genetic samples from the deadliest and colossal dinosaars known to Earth. These creatures have been further enhanced in their aggression following the genetic manipulations carried out by the Jurassic Park scientists before them.

The team is spotted sailing towards an island, where they initially hear a spine-tingling growl from afar, setting the stage for them to encounter what appears to be the most fearsome dinosaurs remaining on the island, as suggested by brief on-screen text.

As a lifestyle expert, I find myself often reflecting on the importance of finding harmony with our environment. At times, it might feel like we’ve wandered off the beaten path and found ourselves in unfamiliar terrain – a place where we may not quite belong. In such moments, it can seem that survival itself is an uphill battle. But remember, these are merely challenges, stepping stones on our journey towards growth and self-discovery. Each obstacle we overcome serves to strengthen our resolve and enrich our understanding of the world around us.

She replies: ‘That’s kind of our specialty.’

In my expert opinion as a lifestyle enthusiast, I’d like to share an intriguing detail: The narrative unfolds approximately five years following the events of Jurassic World Dominion, a movie that graced our screens in 2022 and boasted an illustrious cast including Bryce Dallas Howard, Chris Pratt, Laura Dern, Jeff Goldblum, and Sam Neill, to name just a few of its luminaries.

The summary of the movie indicates that it takes place five years following the events of Jurassic World Dominion, and during this time, Earth’s environment has become mostly unsuitable for dinosaurs to inhabit.

‘The ones that survived are found living in secluded equatorial regions, where the climate mirrors the one they originally prospered in.’

In the lush tropical environment, there are three enormous beings whose secrets could unlock a life-saving medication with astonishing, miraculous effects for humanity.

Additionally, the illustrious ensemble features Manuel Garcia-Rulfo, Luna Blaise, David Iacono, Audrina Miranda, Philippine Velge, Bechir Sylvain, Ed Skrein, along with several other talented actors.

The newest and latest franchise film was directed by Gareth Edwards.

Read More

2025-06-29 16:18