We Should All Be Loving Our Friends As Affectionately As Scarlett Johansson and Jonathan Bailey Love Each Other

We Should Normalise Being Affectionate with Our Friends — Here’s Why

In a recent interview on Today to promote her new film, Jurassic World Rebirth, Scarlett Johansson found herself addressing the internet buzz surrounding her affectionate displays with her co-star, Jonathan Bailey. The two actors have been seen sharing kisses on the lips at various press events, holding hands, and engaging in other intimate gestures. Host Craig Melton even questioned if Johansson’s actions were in response to Bailey’s charm, despite him being openly gay. Johansson dismissed the speculation, stating that they are simply friendly people who enjoy showing affection.

The public reaction to Johansson and Bailey’s displays of friendship highlights a broader cultural discomfort with platonic physical affection. As the Senior Platforms Editor at PEOPLE, Carly Breit challenges this norm by advocating for normalising physical expressions of love among friends. In a society where romantic relationships often take precedence in demonstrating affection, Breit suggests that platonic friendships should also be celebrated through gestures like hugs and kisses.

Living in a bustling city like New York, Breit values her friendships immensely and believes that the bonds she shares with her friends often surpass romantic relationships. She stresses the importance of consent in such displays of affection and asserts that friends should be free to express their love in various ways without being judged or misunderstood. By redefining societal norms around friendship, Breit encourages a more inclusive and expressive approach to platonic relationships.

Drawing inspiration from a close-knit group of queer friends, Breit highlights the beauty of their affectionate interactions, which include sitting on each other’s laps and sharing intimate moments. Despite societal expectations and stereotypes, these friends challenge conventional boundaries and embrace physical closeness as a natural expression of their bond. This serves as a testament to the power of friendship and the freedom to express love in diverse ways.

The discussion surrounding Johansson and Bailey’s friendship also sparks conversations about inclusivity and acceptance. Regardless of sexual orientation or marital status, the act of friends sharing a kiss should not be met with surprise or scrutiny. Bailey eloquently expresses the importance of showing love in all its forms, emphasising that life is too short to withhold affection from those we care about. By opening up to different expressions of love, we foster deeper connections and build a more compassionate community.

As the narrative unfolds, it becomes evident that affection between friends transcends societal norms and challenges preconceived notions of intimacy. By showcasing their genuine bond, Johansson and Bailey exemplify the beauty of platonic love and the joy that comes from nurturing meaningful friendships. Their actions serve as a reminder that love knows no boundaries and can be celebrated in its many forms, enriching our lives and strengthening the bonds we share with those closest to us.

In a world filled with uncertainties and challenges, embracing affection within friendships offers a sense of comfort and support. Whether it’s a simple hug, a reassuring hand on the shoulder, or a friendly kiss, these gestures carry immense value in cultivating deeper connections and fostering a sense of belonging. By normalising and celebrating platonic affection, we not only enrich our own lives but also create a more inclusive and compassionate society for all.