When it comes to modern-day Hollywood megastars, few people can compare to award-winning actress Scarlett Johansson. After beginning her professional acting career at the young age of 7, Johansson wowed critics and fans alike with iconic roles
With so many impressive credits under her belt reaching all the way back to her childhood, it’s hard to imagine Johansson being anything other than the star she is today. However, it turns out, her childhood in New York was a lot grittier than many fans realize.
Scarlett Johansson was born in New York City on November 22, 1984 (via Britannica). Her twin brother, Hunter Johansson, was born just three minutes later, according to Us Weekly; they were the youngest of four siblings.
Apparently, her family lived in a housing development — or, as Johansson described it, “a bunch of brick buildings on the west side.” She first went to a public school and then one for the performing arts. But back then, Johansson said public school was much more diverse
Scarlett Johansson has sometimes been described as a method actor, a technique that’s often associated with method actors going way too far and becoming dangerously immersed in their roles.
Her parents divorce had a serious impact on Johansson, too. In 2019, she spoke to Vanity Fair about how she eventually drew on the painful time for her performance in Marriage Story.
Scarlett Johansson’s Black Widow was the first major female player introduced to the Marvel Cinematic Universe, making her debut in 2010’s Iron Man 2. However, since making her initial splash on the scene, Johansson has been joined by fellow actresses portraying powerful female characters.