Scarlett Johansson is prepping her first major television role, tapping acclaimed writer-directors Cord Jefferson and John Wells to adapt the 1992 novel “Just Cause” into a new limited series for Amazon Prime Video.
Johansson will star as Madison “Madi” Cowart, a female version of the book’s original protagonist, reporter Matt Cowart. Set in Miami, the narrative follows Cowart as she investigates a death row inmate’s claims of innocence, unearthing sinister secrets along the way.
The project marks a homecoming for Johansson, who appeared in the 1995 film adaptation as a child actor. Now, she will spearhead the limited series and executive produce through her company These Pictures, collaborating with multi-hyphenates Jefferson and Wells.
Scarlett Johansson’s Homecoming
Jefferson, hot off Oscar nominations for writing and directing his debut “American Fiction,” will write and executive produce. His adaptation expertise was proven by his Emmy-winning work on “Watchmen,” demonstrating he can modernize dated source material.
Wells, renowned showrunner of “ER” and “The West Wing,” will co-write and executive produce, lending his showrunning savvy. Together, the creatives boast impeccable pedigree to reimagine “Just Cause” through a modern lens.
Collaborating with Multi-Hyphenates
The series continues Johansson’s foray into television after over a decade as Natasha Romanoff in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Lauded for films like “Marriage Story,” Johansson now brings her star power to the small screen, leading a project with both personal meaning and timely themes of corruption and injustice.
With its compelling narrative and A-list talent on both sides of the camera, “Just Cause” has strong foundations to deliver a riveting limited series steeped in suspense. Johansson is crafting a vehicle to showcase her dynamism while collaborating with visionaries that could garner more award season acclaim.
