Scarlett Johansson Refuses Universal’s Request to Join Instagram for ‘Jurassic World: Rebirth’ – Here’s Why

In an era where social media has become an integral part of movie promotion, Scarlett Johansson has made it clear that her authenticity takes precedence over online presence. The Black Widow actress recently shared that Universal Pictures asked her to join Instagram to help promote their upcoming blockbuster, Jurassic World: Rebirth. The film, set for release on July 2nd, 2025, is expected to be a summer box-office hit, and Universal was eager to tap into every marketing resource available, including the power of social media.

However, Johansson, known for her privacy and reluctance to embrace the social media world, stood firm in her decision to decline the request. Speaking with InStyle, Johansson revealed the email she received from Universal, urging her to consider joining Instagram ahead of the film’s release. “I mean, even today, I got an email from Universal (Pictures), and they’re like, ‘Hey, would you consider joining Instagram in tandem with the release of Jurassic World: Rebirth?’ I get a lot of pressure to join social media,” she said.

Staying True to Herself

While many actors have embraced the social media age, using it to engage with fans and promote their projects, Johansson explained that this path didn’t feel true to who she is. She expressed her concern about how joining Instagram might compromise her authenticity. “Is there a way I could do this and stay true to who I am? It didn’t feel like I could,” she admitted.

Johansson emphasized that her work and public persona have always been based on truth, and she believes social media, for all its reach, could undermine that foundation. “The work that I put out there is all based in truth. That’s the key ingredient. So if I was a person who really enjoyed social media, then I could totally get on the bandwagon. But I’m not. And I think the film will do fine,” she added confidently.

The Industry’s Social Media Obsession

Johansson’s decision mirrors the sentiments of other actors, including Stranger Things star Maya Hawke, who recently shared her own frustrations with the pressure to maintain a social media presence. On the Happy Sad Confused podcast, Hawke explained how the industry’s obsession with Instagram followers has affected her approach to social media. “I’m talking about deleting my Instagram, and (some directors) are like, ‘Just so you know, when I’m casting a movie with some producers, they hand me a sheet with the amount of collective followers I have to get from the cast. So if you delete your Instagram and I lose those followers, understand these are the kinds of people I need to cast around you,’” Hawke said, highlighting the growing influence of online popularity in casting decisions.

Jurassic World: Rebirth — A Summer Blockbuster

Despite the pressure from Universal to leverage social media, Johansson remains confident in the strength of Jurassic World: Rebirth. Directed by Gareth Edwards, the highly anticipated installment of the Jurassic World franchise will continue the thrilling saga of the dinosaurs, and Johansson’s decision not to join Instagram hasn’t dampened her enthusiasm for the project. “I think the film will do fine,” she reiterated, emphasizing that the movie’s success isn’t dependent on her personal presence on social media.

As the film’s release date draws closer, Johansson’s choice to prioritize authenticity over following social media trends could be seen as a refreshing stand against the growing expectation for stars to be constantly connected online. In an age of digital engagement, her approach serves as a reminder that an actor’s worth and the success of a film can still be achieved without the need for constant online validation.

Jurassic World: Rebirth is set to hit theaters on July 2nd, 2025, and whether or not Johansson joins Instagram, fans are likely to flock to theaters to see what promises to be another thrilling addition to the franchise.