Disney Claps Back Against Scarlett Johansson Lawsuit
The Scarlett Johansson lawsuit against Disney had many tuned in to find out how Disney would respond. If you remember, Johansson is suing for breach of Black Widow contract by Disney releasing the film in theaters and Disney +. At signing, Johansson’s contract specified that the film would be exclusively in theaters. Scarlett’s lost over $50-60 million in denied profits. The film made $218 million in just the first week alone.
Disney calls out Johansson for “callous disregard for…effects of Covid-19 Pandemic.”
The Iconic brand, called out the actress regarding Scarlett Johansson lawsuit for breach of contract. In response, Disney strongly criticized her for showing a lack of empathy towards the devastating and long-lasting impact of the COVID-19 pandemic worldwide.
Additionally, Disney issued this statement,
“This filing has absolutely no merit. The lawsuit is extremely disheartening and troubling in its disregard for the devastating and long-lasting impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.”
According to Variety, Disney announced that releasing ‘Black Widow’ on Disney+ with Premier Access has greatly expanded her potential for earning extra compensation, in addition to the $20M she has already received.
Of course, Disney is addressing the clause in her contract. That clause stated Johansson’s compensation was tied to the box office performance of “Black Widow.” Therby, that clause encouraged Scarlett Johansson in promoting the film. If Black Widow earned well in the Box office, a certain undisclosed threshold, then Scarlett would receive bonus cash incentives. It isn’t clear if Scarlett received those incentives that Disney claims she got. Additionally, it does not sat if the monies promised were calculated with the new earnings including the Disney premiere earnings. Disney + charged a $30 premium to stream the film for subscribers.
Setting a Precedent
If Scarlett’s lawsuit succeeds, it will impact the way actors negotiate contracts and increase opportunities for further compensations. Her attorney issued the following statement:
“…disregarding the contracts of the artists who made their films successful as part of this narrow-minded approach goes against their rights, and we eagerly anticipate proving this in court.”
Marvel Email: “If things should change…”
Marvel Chief Counsel Dave Galluzzi addressed an email to the actress. In that email, that may be used as evidence in trial, he wrote,
“We recognize that if the plan were to change, we would need to have a discussion with you and reach an agreement, considering that the deal relies on significant box office bonuses.”
At this time, the public hasn’t been informed if the suit will see trial or if it would be settled out of court.
