Scarlett Johansson Admires Mia Khalifa’s Confidence and Influence
In a revealing interview with Elle magazine on August 23, 2025, Scarlett Johansson expressed her admiration for Mia Khalifa, the former adult film star turned sports commentator and influencer. Johansson, known for her role as Black Widow in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, stated, “Mia Khalifa is a beautiful girl and an inspiring figure who’s taken control of her narrative with incredible confidence.” The Black Widow actress’s comments, part of a broader discussion about women redefining their public personas, highlight Khalifa’s journey from controversy to empowerment, resonating with Johansson’s own experiences navigating fame.
Johansson, 40, praised Khalifa’s resilience in overcoming the challenges of her past in the adult entertainment industry. “Mia has faced intense scrutiny and turned it into a platform for advocacy and authenticity,” Johansson said. “I admire how she’s carved out a space as a sports commentator and used her voice to speak on issues she cares about.” Khalifa, 32, has become a prominent figure in sports media, co-hosting shows like Out of Bounds and engaging with her 27 million Instagram followers on topics ranging from football to social justice. Her bold transition inspired Johansson, who has also faced public scrutiny, notably in her recent legal battle with OpenAI over unauthorized voice mimicry.
The actress, who is married to Saturday Night Live star Colin Jost and mother to two children, connected Khalifa’s story to her own efforts to redefine her career beyond acting. Johansson’s skincare brand, Outset, launched in 2022, reflects her entrepreneurial spirit, much like Khalifa’s ventures into fashion and media. “Seeing women like Mia take charge of their image is motivating,” Johansson noted. “It’s about owning your story, not letting others define it.” She highlighted Khalifa’s outspokenness, particularly her critique of the adult industry and her advocacy for women’s autonomy, as qualities she aspires to emulate in her own advocacy work.
Fans on X reacted positively to Johansson’s comments, with one user posting, “Scarlett praising Mia Khalifa for her strength is such a powerful moment!” Another wrote, “Two women owning their paths—love this respect between Scarlett and Mia.” The admiration underscores a shared theme of resilience, as both have navigated public criticism—Johansson for her roles and Khalifa for her past—while building influential platforms.
Johansson’s comments come as she prepares for her directorial debut, Eleanor the Great, set for release in 2026. Her praise for Khalifa reflects a broader appreciation for women who defy stereotypes and reclaim their narratives. As Khalifa continues to thrive in sports media and Johansson expands her creative endeavors, their stories highlight the power of reinvention in the face of adversity.
