Scarlett Johansson has made some comments about marriage that are enough to make anyone hesitate before setting foot in a bridal store.
The actress, who recently split from French journalist Romain Dauriac after two years of marriage, was asked about monogamy in an interview for Playboy.
“I think the idea of marriage is very romantic; it’s a beautiful idea, and the practice of it can be a very beautiful thing,” she said.
“I don’t think it’s natural to be a monogamous person. I might be skewered for that, but I think it’s work. It’s a lot of work. And the fact that it is such work for so many people – for everyone – the fact of that proves that it is not a natural thing.
“It’s something I have a lot of respect for and have participated in, but I think it definitely goes against some instinct to look beyond.”
Look. I have no doubt that Scarlett Johansson finds monogamy more of a challenge than me.
Her working day might involve her rubbing up against Colin Firth or Jonathan Rhys Meyers or Bradley Cooper. Me, I work from home. Once a month or so, a middle-aged tradie drops around to do a termite inspection or unclog the toilet or whatever.
I sympathise with you, Scarlett, I really do.
Of course, there's the instinct to "look beyond". But life as an adult involves overcoming the instincts that are only going to lead to regret. (I have the instinct to go around slapping racists, homophobes and people over 40 who use the word "bae", but I don't.)
Listen: Madison Missina explains the concept of being "monogam-ish". (Post continues after audio.)
Top Comments
She was literally only answering a question about monogamy. Oh course there are a million glorious things about marriage - that's why the majority of people want to do it. That doesn't make her opinion about one aspect of it any less valid.
I sort of agree.
I look at it like this: with friends, you don't get everything you need from one person. i.e. one friend is your go-to party friend, or shares your love of shopping for homewares or the friend that gives the best advice etc etc.
Isn't it a bit naive to think in a relationship one person can give you everything you need?
One person generally doesn't give you everything you need...that's why you still have friends.
The way I see it: my hubby is simply the best friend of all. I've never found monogamy to be hard work.
Each to their own, though.