Scarlett Johansson, a key figure 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 a recent interview with InStyle, Johansson discussed her transition from the MCU to her upcoming role in the big-budget film, Jurassic World Rebirth, set to release this summer. Despite the significant impact Black Widow had on her career, Johansson seems ready to move on from the character.
In a direct response to fans hoping for her return, Johansson emphasized, “Natasha is dead. She is dead. She's dead. Okay?” She urged fans to respect the character's heroic sacrifice, stating, “We’re going to have to let it go. She saved the world. Let her have her hero moment.” Black Widow met her end in 2019's Avengers: Endgame, sacrificing herself to save Jeremy Renner's character, Hawkeye, in a definitive and unambiguous scene. Despite this, fans continue to speculate about potential comebacks for Black Widow and other deceased characters.
Johansson acknowledged the fans' reluctance to accept her character's death, 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 characters, with upcoming films like Avengers: Doomsday and Avengers: Secret Wars set to potentially feature numerous cameos. Robert Downey Jr. is confirmed to take on the role of Doctor Doom after retiring from his iconic Iron Man character. Rumors have swirled about other familiar faces returning, including Chris Evans 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 Doomsday. With so many potential returns on the table, fans' speculation about Johansson's potential comeback is understandable, even if she has firmly shut down the idea.
Fans will have to wait until May 1, 2026, for Avengers: Doomsday and May 7, 2027, for Avengers: Secret Wars to see which characters, dead or alive, will make an appearance. For those eager to stay updated on the MCU, a comprehensive list of upcoming movies and shows is available. Additionally, Marvel's latest project, Daredevil: Born Again, will air its third episode tonight.
