Scarlett Johansson and Disney Settle Lawsuit After Legal Battle Over BLACK WIDOW Release
By Movieguide® Staff
Scarlett Johansson and the Walt Disney Co. have settled her lawsuit regarding BLACK WIDOW’s release on streaming.
The decision marks the end of the first notable fight between a major studio and its star over release strategies in the COVID-19 era.
The two parties released a joint statement which states that they will continue to work together on future projects despite their legal battle.
“I am happy to have resolved our differences with Disney,” Johansson said. “I’m incredibly proud of the work we’ve done together over the years and have greatly enjoyed my creative relationship with the team. I look forward to continuing our collaboration.”
Johanssen is best known in the Disney world for her portrayal of Marvel’s Natasha Romanoff.
The chairman of Disney Studios Content, Alan Bergman, added that he is “pleased” with the settlement.
“We appreciate her contributions to the Marvel Cinematic Universe and look forward to working together on a number of upcoming projects,” Bergman said.
Movieguide® previously reported of the lawsuit:
Hollywood star Scarlett Johansson, known for her portrayal of Black Widow in Disney’s Marvel Franchise, made waves after she sued Disney over an alleged breach of contract.
While Hollywood’s a-list actors are no strangers to legal battles, Johansson’s lawsuit against the largest entertainment company in the world is bound to turn some heads.
The BLACK WIDOW star sued the Walt Disney Company, claiming that their simultaneous release of the summer blockbuster in theaters and their streaming service Disney+—for 30 dollars—violated their original contract with the actress.
Many within the industry stood by Johannsen’s decision and the lawsuit, claiming that it sheds light on the shortcomings of how studios currently pay their actors.
“Good for her,” a Hollywood talent agent said, according to Variety. “A lot of other actors are cheering for Scarlett and rooting her on. She has a lot of power and that makes this a visible conversation that puts Disney on the spot. By doing all of this in public, she might be able to change the rulebook.”
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