Scarlett Johansson Sues French Author

A French court has begun investigating the lawsuit brought by American actress Scarlett Johansson against French author Grégoire Delacourt for allegedly exploiting her name in his new novel, La première chose qu’on regard (The First Thing We Look At).

The novel’s plot revolves around a model who looks so much like Scarlett Johansson that she is constantly mistaken for the actress. The heroine is desired by men for her beauty while at the same time regarded by women with jealousy and disdain.

Johansson, who claims the author’s use of her name and likeness is defamatory, has asked the French court for 50,000 Euros in damages. The actress has also requested the court stop all further distribution and prevent the book from being translated or made into a movie.

As for Delacourt, the author is completely stunned by Johansson’s negative reaction, calling her allegations ludicrous. He explained that the character only shares Johansson’s appearance and is not intended to represent Johansson herself.

Johansson is currently living in Paris with her fiance French journalist, Romain Dauriac.