It’s the year of eloquent cinema, and celebrations have reached Cannes stairs. ‘Paper Tiger,’ starring Scarlett Johansson, Adam Driver, and Miles Teller, received a 7-minute standing ovation during their premiere for its poignant notes. While many A-listers walked through the red carpet, the film’s very own lead actress could not join the actors for the screening of their film on May 16, 2026.
James Gray reads a note shared by Scarlett Johansson
Driver and teller joined their director, James Gray, and fellow cast members to pose in front of the cameras; however, everybody noticed one person was missing: Scarlet Johansson. During the press conference on May 17, Gray read the note of the actress apologizing for her absence from the Cannes Film Festival 2026. “I’m sorry I can’t be there with you today. James, I know you are reading this right now, and this part will make you genuinely queasy,” he said, mentioning that she believes the story is rooted in what matters the most: human connection, identity, and ever-evolving values.
Scarlett Johansson apologizes for her absence
“My apologies. But I want you to know how much it means to me to have been part of something that you created with such care and intention that came from the depths of your artistic soul,” the note continued, according to Deadline. Previously, Variety reported that Johansson could not join the south of France, as the actress has been busy filming the reboot of ‘The Exorcist.’ Johansson ended the note by highlighting that cinema has the power to connect viewers through a shared experience, and that collective empathy is necessary in today’s day and age. Meanwhile, James Gray tried to involve Scarlett Johansson in the festivities by FaceTiming her to show the audience reactions. However, the call went unanswered, and he humorously displayed his frustrating emotions.
