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Scarlett Johansson is once again reflecting on her long, complicated connection to filmmaker Woody Allen, and whether her public support for him has shaped her trajectory in Hollywood. The actress, who has appeared in three of Allen's films over the years, said in a recent interview that she still isn't sure what the personal or professional fallout has been.
"I guess it's hard to know," she told The Daily Telegraph, explaining that it's impossible to map out the ripple effects of any controversial stance. Johansson noted that she was raised to value integrity above public approval. "My mom always encouraged me to be myself, that it's important to have integrity, and stand up for what you believe in."
At the same time, she acknowledged that experience has taught her when to step back. "I think it's also important to know when it's not your turn," she said. "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 been one of the few major stars to continue to defend Allen as accusations from his daughter Dylan Farrow resurfaced during the #MeToo movement. Allen has repeatedly denied the claims, which were investigated and dismissed decades ago, and Johansson previously said in 2019 that she believed him and would "work with him anytime."
The actress also addressed broader concerns about speaking out in Hollywood, pointing to moments when she felt isolated, including her public dispute with Disney over the streaming release of Black Widow and her objection to an AI voice she said sounded "eerily similar" to hers. "It would be great to have more support from the community and my peers," she noted. "It's always helpful to have more voices."
Allen, now in his late 80s, recently said on Bill Maher's podcast that the controversy surrounding him has been "interesting and amusing" and that he was not personally hurt due to his age and long-established career, though he admitted feeling "disillusioned" during the investigation process.
