Scarlett Johansson worked hard for success

Scarlett Johansson has hit back at critics following her Tony Award win, insisting she has "worked her a*s" off to be a success.

The star recently picked up a best featured actress prize for her role in a Broadway production of A View From the Bridge. Following her triumph, a Facebook campaign was launched called Give The Tonys Back To Broadway - with some actors claiming Scarlett`s Hollywood status had influenced her win. Scarlett understands how difficult it is to make it in the industry, but insists she has put in her fair share of hard work.

"I pounded the pavement for years and I know what it`s like to struggle as an actor,"the 25-year-old star told Broadway World. "A lot of it is luck and, certainly, a lot of it is opportunity - and the lack of that. So, I totally understand the frustration there.

"A lot of my friends who are struggling actors are going through the same thing. But, I can`t apologise for it. For me, it`s more about hiring the right person for the job. If somebody is cast because they are a name but they`re not right for the job, well, it`s very frustrating."

Scarlett also went on to defend other Hollywood stars who have enjoyed success in the theatre industry recently, including Denzel Washington and Catherine Zeta-Jones who also won Tony Awards. She insists their involvement in productions benefits everyone as it raises the profile of the show and boosts ticket sales. The star also revealed many of these actors began their careers treading the boards, so are simply returning to their roots.

"The actors we`ve seen this season that we recognise from film - Denzel Washington, Viola Davis, Liev Schreiber and Catherine Zeta-Jones, etc. - have not only made a huge impact on ticket sales but have given tour de force performances and all started their careers as stage actors, dedicating themselves to making an impression in the theatre," Scarlett added. "This goes to show that actors are actors, whatever the outlet, and with perseverance and drive, can cross the boundaries of the medium."

sections: Celebrities