July 14 (UPI) -- Scarlett Johansson has announced she will not play a transgender crime kingpin in the fact-based film Rub & Tug as planned.
"I have great admiration and love for the trans community and am grateful that the conversation regarding inclusivity in Hollywood continues," the actress wrote in a statement to Out magazine Friday. "While I would have loved the opportunity to bring Dante's story and transition to life, I understand why many feel he should be portrayed by a transgender person, and I am thankful that this casting debate, albeit controversial, has sparked a larger conversation about diversity and representation in film."