Scarlett Johansson has defended her past support of director Woody Allen amid the long‑running sexual abuse scandal. The actress explained why she has continued to stand by Allen, outlining the reasons behind her public stance and reflecting on how speaking out has shaped her professional life.
Scarlett Johansson talks about supporting Woody Allen
Scarlett Johansson has continued to support Woody Allen amid longstanding allegations of sexual abuse. In a 2019 interview with The Hollywood Reporter, Johansson said, “I love Woody. I believe him, and I would work with him anytime.”
She has now reaffirmed that stance in a new interview with The Telegraph, stating, “You never know what the domino effect is, exactly,” when asked about the potential impact of her public support. She added, “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.”
Allen, 90, has been the subject of controversy since 1992 when Dylan Farrow, the adopted daughter of Allen and Mia Farrow, accused him of molestation. Allen has consistently denied the allegations, and the New York Department of Social Services investigated and dismissed them.
In 2014, Dylan Farrow repeated the allegations in a letter that The New York Times published. In an interview with CBS, Allen responded, “I believe she thinks it. She was a good kid. I do not believe that she’s making it up. I don’t believe she’s lying. I believe she believes that.”
Johansson and Allen worked together on three films: Match Point (2005), Scoop (2006), and Vicky Cristina Barcelona (2008). Johansson stated, “He’s very direct with me. He maintains his innocence, and I believe him.”
Despite public backlash, Johansson has not expressed regret for her support. “I think it’s also important to know when it’s not your turn,” she said, clarifying, “I don’t mean that you should silence yourself. I mean sometimes it’s just not your time.”
Other actors such as Diane Keaton and Sean Penn have also defended Allen in the past. Johansson’s continued defense stands out in an industry where most former collaborators distanced themselves from the director after the reemergence of the allegations during the #MeToo movement.
