Scarlett Johansson filed a lawsuit against Disney for alleged violation of contract after it simultaneously released 'Black Widow' in theatres and on Disney+
Hollywood actress Scarlett Johansson has sued the Walt Disney Co. over its streaming release of Black Widow, which she said breached her agreement and denied her of potential earnings.
According to The Wall Street Journal's report, the lawsuit filed on Thursday morning in Los Angeles Superior Court, Scarlett Johansson and executive producer said her contract guaranteed an exclusive theatrical release.
Scarlett Johansson’s earnings from the film were tied to the film's box office performance, which the company released simultaneously in theatres and on its streaming service on OTT Disney+ for a $30 rental.
According to The Wall Street Journal, "Disney intentionally induced marvel's breach of the agreement, without justification, to prevent Ms. Johannson from realising the full benefit of her bargain with Marvel."
The production company responded to the allegations and said that the lawsuit has 'no merit whatsoever'. "The lawsuit is unfortunate and distressing in its callous disregard for the horrific and prolonged global effects of the COVID-19 pandemic."
opened to $80 million in the U.S. and Canada, setting a COVID-era box office record, and earned an additional $60 million on Disney Plus. With sales currently at $319 million globally, it stands to be one of the lowest-grossing Marvel films. https://t.co/UkWhPDwOsH pic.twitter.com/CUNd89F2Kf
— Variety (@Variety)Scarlett Johansson’s latest Black Widow is yet to be released in India. Multiple reports suggest that it is expected to be released on Disney+Hotstar in October.