Scarlett Johansson, a seasoned veteran of the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), has firmly stated that her character, Black Widow, is "dead" and she appears uninterested in reprising the role anytime soon. In a candid interview with InStyle, Johansson addressed the future of the beloved Avenger as she gears up for her role in this summer's blockbuster, Jurassic World Rebirth. Despite fervent speculation from Marvel fans about potential ways to bring Natasha Romanoff back, Johansson remains resolute.
"Natasha is dead. She is dead. *She's dead.* Okay?" Johansson emphasized, responding to fans' persistent calls for her return. "We’re going to *have* to let it go. She saved the world. Let her have her hero moment." Although Johansson's last portrayal of Black Widow was in the 2021 standalone film, the character met her definitive end in 2019's Avengers: Endgame by sacrificing herself to save Jeremy Renner's Clint Barton, known as Hawkeye.
Despite this clear narrative closure, fans continue to theorize about her possible return. Johansson acknowledges this, saying, "They just don't want to believe it. 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 reviving deceased characters, fueling speculation around upcoming event movies such as Avengers: Doomsday and Avengers: Secret Wars. These films are anticipated not only as pivotal chapters in the MCU but also as potential platforms for numerous character cameos.
While Robert Downey Jr. transitions from Iron Man to take on the role of Doctor Doom in over a decade, rumors have swirled about other iconic figures making a comeback. Notably, The Wrap suggested that Chris Evans would return as Captain America, a claim he later denied, adding to the ongoing speculation. Additionally, Hayley Atwell’s Agent Carter, who has died twice in the MCU, is rumored to appear in next year’s Doomsday project. With so many beloved characters potentially returning, it's understandable why fans continue to hope for Black Widow's revival, despite Johansson's firm 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 deceased, will feature in these epic films.
For those eager for more MCU content, you can explore our comprehensive list of every upcoming movie and show Marvel has in the works. Additionally, don't miss out on Marvel's latest project, Daredevil: Born Again, which premieres its third episode tonight.
