why casting Scarlett Johansson and James Franco as queer characters sparked major controversy. Explore the debate on LGBTQ+ representation and authenticity in Hollywood.
In recent years, Hollywood has faced criticism for casting straight actors in LGBTQ+ roles. Two notable cases involve Scarlett Johansson and James Franco.
In 2018, Scarlett Johansson was set to play Dante “Tex” Gill, a transgender man, in the film Rub & Tug. The casting sparked immediate backlash from the transgender community and allies, who argued that a trans actor should portray the role. Initially, Johansson defended her casting by referencing other cisgender actors who had played trans characters. However, she later withdrew from the project, acknowledging the concerns and emphasizing the importance of representation.
Similarly, James Franco faced criticism for portraying gay characters in films like I Am Michael and King Cobra. While these roles brought attention to LGBTQ+ stories, some felt that casting straight actors in such roles overlooked opportunities for queer actors. Director Justin Kelly defended the casting choices, stating that high-profile actors like Franco helped secure funding and visibility for these films.