Scarlett Johansson, a mainstay 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 addressed the future of the iconic Avenger while gearing up for her next big venture in this summer's "Jurassic World Rebirth." Despite the significant impact Black Widow had on her career, Johansson seems eager to move on from the character.
"Natasha is dead. She is dead. *She's dead.* Okay?" Johansson emphasized when 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." Johansson last played Black Widow in the 2021 standalone film, but the character's death was established in 2019's "Avengers: Endgame," where she sacrificed herself to save Jeremy Renner's Hawkeye. Despite the clear finality of her demise, fans continue to speculate on her possible 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 phenomenon of fans hoping for the return of deceased characters is not new in the MCU. With upcoming films like "Avengers: Doomsday" and "Avengers: Secret Wars," set for release on May 1, 2026, and May 7, 2027, respectively, there's speculation about potential cameos and returns. The MCU has seen other characters, like Robert Downey Jr.'s Iron Man, move on, with Downey set to take on the role of Doctor Doom. Rumors also circulated about Chris Evans reprising 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 "Doomsday."
As fans eagerly await the next chapters in the MCU saga, they continue to speculate about who might return. However, Johansson's stance on Black Widow remains clear: the character's story has concluded. For those wanting to stay updated on the MCU, a list of every upcoming movie and show is available, along with the latest project, Daredevil: Born Again, which premieres its third episode tonight.
