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Scarlett Johansson is one of the most versatile and loved actresses in Hollywood. She is well known for seamlessly shifting between indie dramas and blockbuster franchises. While she has starred in several films, her portrayal of Natasha Romanoff, aka Black Widow, in the Marvel Cinematic Universe made her an international icon. Her performance in films like Marriage Story, Her, and Lost in Translation showcased her depth as an actress.
Over the years, Johansson reportedly passed on several projects that later went on to become critically and commercially successful. In fact, she even admitted to being rejected for film roles throughout her career, even for roles she eventually landed. Here’s a look at 10 major films Scarlett Johansson turned down that became blockbusters.
Jumanji (1995)
The 2017 reboot Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle became a surprise smash hit with Dwayne Johnson, Kevin Hart, and Jack Black leading the adventure. Scarlett Johansson was considered for a key role in the film. However, she passed off the film, thus making it missing out on one of Sony’s most successful modern franchises.
Les Misérables (2012)
Tom Hooper’s musical adaptation of the iconic stage show featured Anne Hathaway’s Oscar-winning performance as Fantine. Johansson reportedly auditioned for the role but bowed out due to vocal strain. Hathaway went on to sweep awards season.
Gravity (2013)
One of the biggest missed opportunities of Scarlett Johansson’s career was Alfonso Cuarón’s Gravity. The sci-fi thriller, headlined by Sandra Bullock and George Clooney, was a critical and box office blockbuster. Bullock even won an Oscar nomination for the role Scarlett passed on.
My Week With Marilyn (2011)
The two-time Academy Award winner was approached to play Marilyn Monroe in this biographical drama but declined, wary of being typecast in “bombshell” roles. Michelle Williams took the part and delivered a widely acclaimed, Oscar-nominated performance.
Superman Returns (2006)
Bryan Singer’s Superman Returns saw Kate Bosworth play Lois Lane. Johansson was reportedly in the mix for the iconic journalist but decided against joining the DC superhero world, years before finding her footing in Marvel.
The Great Gatsby (2013)
Baz Luhrmann’s dazzling adaptation of F. Scott Fitzgerald’s novel starred Carey Mulligan as Daisy Buchanan opposite Leonardo DiCaprio. Johansson was an early contender for the role but turned it down due to scheduling conflicts.
Elizabethtown (2005)
Director Cameron Crowe originally approached Scarlett Johansson for the female lead in this romantic dramedy. However, she declined, and the role eventually went to Kirsten Dunst. Although the film wasn’t a critical hit, it remains a cult favourite.
The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo (2011)
Johansson was considered for the gritty role of Lisbeth Salander, but director David Fincher ultimately felt she looked “too glamorous” for the edgy character. Rooney Mara won the role and earned an Academy Award nomination.
V for Vendetta (2006)
Natalie Portman shaved her head and gave one of her most powerful performances in this dystopian thriller. Scarlett Johansson was reportedly in early talks but dropped out, opening the door for Portman’s now-iconic role.
Mission Impossible III (2006)
Johansson was cast in a supporting role alongside Tom Cruise, but exited the project before filming. Keri Russell replaced her, and the film became another solid entry in the spy-action franchise.
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