Scarlett Johansson’s new role causes controversy again – she should step away

Scarlett Johansson has been cast as a transgender man and facing harsh criticism for her choice. Here’s why she should step away.

Scarlett Johansson’s next role is already being talked about – but not in a good way. The Hollywood star has been cast as a transgender man in the upcoming film Rub & Tug, about a transgender man who ran massage parlors that doubled as brothels. Transgender activists, allies and supportors have spoken out against the casting choice.

This is not the first time Johansson has faced controversy regarding a role. This is the second time she has taken on a role that critics felt shouldn’t have been offered to her. While Johansson was offered these roles, having an understanding of what the impact of taking these roles should play into her decision process.

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That’s twice now she has taken on a role depicting people from marginalized communities.

In 2017, she starred in Ghost in the Shell, which was based on a Japanese manga series. The character in Ghost in the Shell is Japanese. Johansson is not. For Rub & Tug, the character is a transgender man. Johansson is not.

The big issue comes in that transgender actors aren’t getting the same opportunities. Often, they are cast in roles that only depict a trans character whereas actors like Johansson have so many more doors open for them. This is role that shouldn’t have been offered to her and one she should not have taken.

A rep responded to Bustle for a comment, which was attributed to Johansson, and makes it even worse:

"“Tell them that they can be directed to Jeffrey Tambor, Jared Leto, and Felicity Huffman’s reps for comment.”"

Some of the above-named actors also received backlash for the roles and have also spoken out against cis actors playing transgender roles.

Many have also described Johansson’s intent and being good, trying to bring to light more transgender stories, but impact always trumps intent. Transgender actors are speaking out against Johannsson’s casting, speaking up for a marginalized community that continues to face obstacles in Hollywood and beyond.

Sense8’s Jamie Clayton tweeted her criticism, making a point of saying how transgender actors don’t get the same opportunities. Laverne Cox joined in, offering her support to other actors speaking out.

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Some twitter users shot back at the news too. This is probably not the PR she had in mind when the casting choice was announced.

Rather than seemingly having a tantrum, Johannsson should back out of the role, and director Rupert Sanders should cast a transgender actor instead.