Scarlett Johansson, a veteran of the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), has firmly stated that her character, Black Widow, is "dead" and she shows no interest in reprising the role in the near future. During an interview with InStyle, Johansson discussed her future plans, which include starring in the upcoming big-budget film, Jurassic World Rebirth. Despite fans' ongoing speculation about her potential return as Natasha Romanoff, Johansson remains resolute.
"Natasha is dead. She is dead. *She's dead.* Okay?" Johansson emphasized, addressing the fans' hopes 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 appeared as 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, also known as Hawkeye. Despite this clear narrative closure, fans continue to theorize about her possible 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 desire to see deceased characters return is not new to the MCU, especially with upcoming event movies like Avengers: Doomsday and Avengers: Secret Wars, which are expected to be filled with cameos and significant plot developments. These films, set to release on May 1, 2026, and May 7, 2027, respectively, have sparked further speculation about who might appear, living or dead.
In other MCU news, Robert Downey Jr. is set to transition from Iron Man to the iconic villain Doctor Doom, marking his first live-action portrayal of the character in over a decade. Rumors have also circulated about Chris Evans potentially returning as Captain America, though he has since denied these claims. Additionally, Hayley Atwell's Agent Carter, who has died twice in the MCU, is rumored to appear in the upcoming Avengers: Doomsday project. With so many beloved characters in the mix, fans continue to speculate about possible comebacks, despite Johansson's clear stance on Black Widow's fate.
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's newest series, Daredevil: Born Again, with its third episode premiering tonight.
