2 Aug – After Scarlett Johansson made the bold move of suing Disney for breach of contract, rumours are rife that Emma Stone is planning to do so in the near future. In his exclusive newsletter, "What I'm Hearing", former The Hollywood Reporter Matt Belloni stated that the "Cruella" star is currently weighing her option and in talks with her lawyer about a possible lawsuit. Johansson made headlines last week by deciding to take Walt Disney Studios to court after the studio decided to release the Marvel film "Black Widow" in theatres and Disney+ Premier Access on the same day last month. This is said to be in breach of her contract that promised an exclusive theatrical release and back-end salary based upon box office numbers - which has fallen short due to the hybrid model of release.
Said Johansson's lawyer John Berlinski, "Disney intentionally induced Marvel's breach of the agreement, without justification, in order to prevent Ms. Johansson from realising the full benefit of her bargain with Marvel. This will surely not be the last case where Hollywood talent stands up to Disney and makes it clear that, whatever the company may pretend, it has a legal obligation to honour its contracts." It is noted that "Cruella" was also released both in theatres and Disney+ Premier Access. Aside from Stone, Belloni stated that there is a chance for Emily Blunt to speak out on the subject, what with her new movie "Jungle Cruise" receiving similar hybrid model of release.