Johansson Flap Could Deter Stars’ Philanthropy, Expert Says

A leading giving consultant to the stars says the dispute that led to actress Scarlett Johansson’s split with aid group Oxfam could deter celebrities from engaging in high-profile charity work, U.K. daily The Independent writes.

Ms. Johansson resigned as an Oxfam global ambassador on poverty issues after the charity criticized her endorsement deal with SodaStream, an Israeli company that operates a manufacturing plant in the occupied West Bank. Trevor Neilson, co-founder of the Global Philanthropy Group, said it was “unrealistic” for charities to expect their celebrity spokespeople to agree with them on all issues.

“Now, the celebrities, actors, athletes, people who are the focus of our celebrity-obsessed culture, will be less likely to become philanthropic,” said Mr. Neilson, who has advised Madonna, Angelina Jolie, Brad Pitt, and other A-list stars on philanthropy initiatives.