Scarlett Johansson, a veteran of the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), has firmly declared that her character, Black Widow, is "dead" and she seems uninterested in reprising the role in the near future. During an interview with InStyle, Johansson discussed the future of the Avenger in the MCU, while also focusing on her upcoming role in the big-budget film "Jurassic World Rebirth" this summer. Despite the significant impact Black Widow had on her career, Johansson is clear about not returning to the character anytime soon.
"Natasha is dead. She is dead. *She's dead.* Okay?" Johansson emphasized, responding to fans hoping for her return. "We’re going to *have* to let it go. She saved the world. Let her have her hero moment." Although Johansson last played Black Widow in the 2021 standalone film, the character met her definitive end in 2019's "Avengers: Endgame," sacrificing herself to save Jeremy Renner's Clint Barton, known as Hawkeye. Despite this clear ending, fans continue to speculate about her potential return.
"They just don't want to believe it," Johansson added. "They’re like, ‘But she could come back!’ Look, I think the balance of the entire universe is held in her hand. We’re going to *have* to let it go. She saved the world. Let her have her hero moment."
The MCU has a history of bringing back deceased characters, and upcoming films like "Avengers: Doomsday" and "Avengers: Secret Wars" are anticipated not just as the next chapters in the MCU saga but also as potential platforms for cameo-filled spectacles. Rumors swirl about other iconic characters returning, such as Robert Downey Jr. potentially taking on the role of Doctor Doom, and despite Chris Evans denying rumors of his return as Captain America, fans remain hopeful. Hayley Atwell's Agent Carter, who has died twice in MCU films, is also rumored to appear in "Doomsday." With so many speculated comebacks, it's understandable why fans continue to hope for Black Widow's return, despite Johansson's clear stance.
Fans will have to wait until May 1, 2026, for "Avengers: Doomsday" and May 7, 2027, for "Avengers: Secret Wars" to see which characters, living or dead, will make an appearance.
For those eager to stay updated on the MCU, you can explore our comprehensive list of every upcoming movie and show Marvel has planned. Additionally, don't miss the latest from Marvel, with the third episode of Daredevil: Born Again premiering tonight.
