ScarJo opts not to play trans man

Scarlett Johansson has ditched a role inspired by the true story of a transgender man in the upcoming film “Rub & Tug.”

“In light of recent ethical questions raised surrounding my casting as Dante Tex Gill, I have decided to respectfully withdraw my participation in the project,” said Johansson in a statement to the gay entertainment publication Out.

“Our cultural understanding of transgender people continues to advance, and I’ve learned a lot from the community since making my first statement about my casting and realize it was insensitive. I have great admiration and love for the trans community and am grateful that the conversation regarding inclusivity in Hollywood continues.”

When the movie was first announced on July 2, Johansson, a cisgender woman, faced immediate backlash for accepting a trans role.

“Tell them they can be directed to Jeffrey Tambor, Jared Leto, and Felicity Huffman’s reps for comment,” Johansson reportedly said in response the next day, according to Bustle.