Scarlett Johansson, a stalwart of the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), has firmly declared that her iconic character, Black Widow, is "dead" and expressed a lack of interest in reprising the role anytime soon. In a recent interview with InStyle, Johansson addressed the future of the Avenger in the MCU while promoting her upcoming role in the big-budget franchise, Jurassic World Rebirth. Despite the significant impact Black Widow had on her career, Johansson seems content to move on from Natasha Romanoff.
"Natasha is dead. She is dead. She's dead. Okay?" Johansson stated emphatically, 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 last portrayed the character in the 2021 standalone film Black Widow, Natasha Romanoff met her definitive end in 2019's Avengers: Endgame, sacrificing herself to save Jeremy Renner's Clint Barton, also known as Hawkeye. Despite the clear narrative closure, fans continue to speculate about her potential return.
"They just don't want to believe it," Johansson remarked on the fans' reluctance to accept her character's fate. "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 anticipation for upcoming blockbusters like Avengers: Doomsday and Avengers: Secret Wars. These films are not only seen as the next big chapter for the MCU but also as potential platforms for numerous character cameos. Rumors have circulated about other MCU stars returning, including Robert Downey Jr., who is set to play Doctor Doom after hanging up his Iron Man suit. There were also unverified reports suggesting Chris Evans might reprise his role as Captain America, though he later denied these claims. Additionally, Hayley Atwell's Agent Carter, who has died twice in the MCU, is rumored to appear in the upcoming Doomsday project.
With so many familiar faces potentially returning, it's understandable that fans continue to speculate about who might appear in future MCU films, despite Johansson's clear stance on Black Widow's fate. 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 in the works. Additionally, don't miss the latest from Marvel with the premiere of the third episode of Daredevil: Born Again tonight.
