Scarlett Johansson Names Cat on a Hot Tin Roof as Her Most Challenging Role
OPINION: This article may contain commentary which reflects the author's opinion.
Scarlett Johansson has built a diverse career tackling complex and varied characters, but when asked about the most emotionally and technically demanding role she’s ever played, she consistently points to Maggie in the 2013 Broadway revival of Cat on a Hot Tin Roof.
A Role Marked by Extreme Vulnerability
Johansson described this period of her career as one where she experienced “extreme vulnerability over the last few years, more than I ever had.” Playing Maggie, a resilient woman determined to survive amidst family turmoil, required Johansson to push herself beyond her comfort zone. She intentionally sought out “more demanding choices” in her roles, using discomfort as a catalyst for creativity.
Mastering the Stage Under Intense Direction
The transition to stage acting brought its own challenges. Director Greg Mosher subjected Johansson to a punishing learning curve, urging her to master control over her emotional impulses. Instead of succumbing to instinctive tears, she was trained to reserve them for moments that truly carried storytelling weight. Mosher praised her openness to personal and intense feedback, highlighting her dedication to growth.
Other Challenging Roles, But Not Quite as Intense
Johansson’s performance in Under the Skin (2013) as a mysterious alien predator was physically and psychologically taxing—adopting a haunting accent, living unscripted moments with strangers, and driving through Glasgow. Likewise, her voice-only role in Her required expressive depth without physical presence, a challenge she found initially intimidating but ultimately liberating.
Despite these tough roles, Johansson has made clear that nothing matches the psychological and emotional intensity of portraying Maggie on Broadway.
In summary, Scarlett Johansson’s journey with Cat on a Hot Tin Roof stands as the pinnacle of her artistic challenges—a testament to her resilience, control, and commitment to her craft in the rawest, most vulnerable form.
