Scarlett Johansson had signed on to play the role of a transgender man in 'Rub and Tug'. The story is based on the life of crime boss Dante "Tex" Gill who was born Jean Gill and ran a sex racket in the guise of operating a chain of massage parlours in Pittsburg.

However there was heavy backlash from the LGBT community who felt that the role should go to one of them. Scarlett Johansson has released a statement ""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 adds "I am thankful that this casting debate... has sparked a larger conversation about diversity and representation in film,".