She truly is such an intelligant, classy lady!
There's been quite a bit of backlash from Broadway folk after many of the Tony's were awarded this year to actors more known for their film work!
Broadway actor Hunter Foster, even went as far to start a Facebook campaign called 'GIVE THE TONYS BACK TO BROADWAY!!'
One of the recipients being targeted is Miz Scarlett Johansson, who, when asked about whether or not she felt the backlash was fair, responded with:
"You know, I pounded the pavement for years and I know what it's like to struggle as an actor. A lot of it is luck and, certainly, a lot of it is opportunity - and the lack of that. So, I totally understand the frustration there. There's not much else that I can say about it, really…I mean, I am very sympathetic to that. I totally understand it. A lot of my friends who are struggling actors are going through the same thing. But, I can't apologize for it. I have worked my ass off to get to where I am so I understand that struggle. For me, it's more about hiring the right person for the job. You know, who fits that description. If somebody is cast because they are a name but they're not right for the job, well, it's very frustrating. I see that. As an actor, you're trying to get one foot in the door all the time. It's the most competitive and challenging, one of the most competitive, though, for sure…
I thought more about your question and would like to add that the actors we've seen this season that we recognize from film - Denzel Washington, Viola Davis, Liev Schreiber and Catherine Zeta-Jones, etc. - have not only made a huge impact on ticket sales but have given tour de force performances and all started their careers as stage actors, dedicating themselves to making an impression in the theater. This goes to show that actors are actors, whatever the outlet, and with perseverance and drive, can cross the boundaries of the medium. In VIEW, I had the privilege of working opposite Morgan Spector, a relatively unknown actor who gave a luminous, educated performance as 'Rodolpho'. Greg Mosher could've had his pick of recognizable film actors who would've jumped at the opportunity to fill the part, but he saw something worth pursuing in Morgan and our production was the better for it."
Well said, bb!
We agree 100%!
If they did a good job, they should be rewarded for it - it doesn't matter what medium the actor is performing in!
What do U think?? Is it fair for the Hollywood actors to do so well at the Tony's??
[Image via WENN.]
