Scarlett Johansson Doubts Black Widow's MCU Return: 'She's Dead'

Scarlett Johansson, a staple in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), has firmly stated that her character, Black Widow, is "dead" and she appears uninterested in reprising the role in the near future. During an interview with InStyle, Johansson discussed her next venture in the upcoming summer blockbuster, Jurassic World Rebirth, while addressing the persistent fan speculation about her return as Natasha Romanoff. Despite Black Widow's significant impact on her career, Johansson seems ready to move on from the character.

"Natasha is dead. She is dead. She's dead. Okay?" Johansson emphasized, responding to fans hoping for her character's revival. "We’re going to have to let it go. She saved the world. Let her have her hero moment." Although Johansson last portrayed 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 Hawkeye. Despite the clear narrative closure, fans continue to theorize about her potential return.

"They just don't want to believe it," Johansson remarked. "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, and fans are abuzz with anticipation for upcoming event films like Avengers: Doomsday and Avengers: Secret Wars. These movies are not only seen as the next phase for the MCU but also potential platforms for cameo appearances by beloved characters.

Rumors are swirling about other MCU veterans returning, including Robert Downey Jr. stepping into the role of Doctor Doom for the first time in over a decade, and unconfirmed reports of Chris Evans reprising Captain America, despite his subsequent denial. Additionally, Hayley Atwell's Agent Carter, who has died twice in the MCU, is rumored to appear in the upcoming Doomsday project. With such speculation rampant, it's understandable why fans might 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 who ultimately makes the cut.

For more updates 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's recent project, Daredevil: Born Again, with its third episode premiering tonight.