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In 2004, Scarlett Johansson was cast in a movie on a week’s notice. It became the most controversial collaboration of her career
Scarlett Johansson joined Woody Allen’s psychological thriller *Match Point* at short notice in 2004, after the original lead, Kate Winslet, withdrew for family reasons. The casting gave Johansson another prominent role after a busy run of films, and began a collaboration that has remained controversial because she has continued to support Allen despite his diminished standing in Hollywood.
Johansson said she had planned to take the summer off, but filming began about a week after she received the call. She later said she would be happy to work with Allen indefinitely. They went on to make *Scoop* and *Vicky Cristina Barcelona*, but have not worked together since; Winslet later expressed regret over her own collaboration with Allen.
In short
- Johansson replaced Kate Winslet in *Match Point* at a week’s notice.
- The role began a notable collaboration with Woody Allen.
- Johansson has continued to defend Allen, keeping the partnership contentious.
Steelman: both sides, in good faith
The strongest fair case each way — we don't pick a winner.
The case for
Supporters can argue that Johansson was entitled to judge Allen by her own experience working with him and to make her own professional choices, rather than treating Hollywood’s changing reputation of him as conclusive. Her willingness to collaborate may also reflect a broader principle that allegations and public controversy should not automatically end someone’s ability to work.
The case against
Critics can argue that continuing to praise or work with Allen, given the serious allegations against him, lends professional legitimacy to a figure whose standing has sharply declined. They may see public support from prominent actors as consequential: it can shape whose accounts are taken seriously and whether the industry confronts concerns about power and accountability.