Scarlett Johansson says she's been 'rejected constantly' for film roles: 'I've basically made a career out of being second choice'

Scarlett Johansson says she's been 'rejected constantly' for film roles: 'I've basically made a career out of being second choice'

Scarlett Johansson told Parade magazine that she has "made a career out of being second choice."

Johansson was cast in small roles "Home Alone 3" (1997) and "The Horse Whisperer" (1998, which also featured future MCU co-star Robert Redford) when she was just 12 and 13 years old, respectively, but told Parade: "Since a very young age, I've been rejected constantly."

One such instance in which the twice Oscar-nominated actress was second choice was for perhaps her most iconic role to date. The first choice to play Black Widow in the MCU, beginning with "Iron Man 2," was Emily Blunt.

Johansson told Parade that she had a "wonderful" meeting with director Jon Favreau: "I was really excited to work with him, so I said, 'If this doesn't work out, I'm an actor for hire, so call me anytime.'"

Fortunately for Johansson, Blunt was unable to take on the role after failing to work her schedule around "Gulliver's Travels," which she had already committed to. Johansson was then offered the part of Natasha Romanoff.

"The best call you can receive is after you are rejected for something and then you get it," Johansson said. "You appreciate it more. I've basically made a career out of being second choice."