Actress Scarlett Johansson has voiced her support for filmmaker Woody Allen amid ongoing controversy surrounding sexual abuse allegations leveled against him by his stepdaughter, Dylan Farrow. The claims, which were first made public in 1992 and resurfaced during the #MeToo movement, assert that Allen sexually molested Farrow when she was a child. Despite the serious nature of these allegations, Allen has consistently denied them.
Johansson, who has collaborated with Allen on three films—“Match Point,” “Scoop,” and “Vicky Cristina Barcelona”—discussed the potential consequences of publicly supporting him during an interview with The Daily Telegraph. She admitted it was “hard to know” if her stance led to any personal or professional repercussions but emphasized the importance of integrity and standing up for one’s beliefs. “You never know what the domino effect is, exactly. But my mom always encouraged me to be myself and to see that it’s important to have integrity,” she said.
Moreover, Johansson reflected on personal growth and the complexities of timing in speaking out, explaining, “Sometimes it’s just not your time. And that’s something I’ve understood more as I’ve matured.” On previous occasions, she has reiterated her belief in Allen’s innocence, expressing, “I see Woody whenever I can, and I have had a lot of conversations with him about it.”
While Johansson has publicly defended Allen, she is among a minority, as several actors who have worked with him—such as Michael Caine, Timothée Chalamet, and Greta Gerwig—have expressed regret over their associations with the director. Additionally, reports indicate that Allen has faced challenges in securing US distribution for his recent projects.
Despite the turbulence surrounding Allen’s career, the support he maintains from certain individuals highlights the divergent perspectives on accountability and belief in the face of serious allegations, reflecting a complex landscape within Hollywood. This ongoing dialogue continues to unfold, emphasizing the importance of personal conviction and the repercussions that can arise in the public spotlight.