Scarlett Johansson: 'Black Widow Is Dead,' Casts Doubt on MCU Return

Scarlett Johansson, a veteran of the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), has firmly stated that her character, Black Widow, is "dead" and she appears uninterested in reprising the role anytime soon. During an interview with InStyle, Johansson discussed the future of her iconic Avenger character while also looking forward to her role in the upcoming big-budget film, Jurassic World Rebirth. Despite the significant impact Black Widow had on her career, Johansson seems ready to move on from Natasha Romanoff.

"Natasha is dead. She is dead. She's dead. Okay?" Johansson emphasized, addressing 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." Johansson last portrayed Black Widow in the 2021 standalone film, but 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 the clear nature of her character's death, fans continue to speculate about potential comebacks.

"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 upcoming films like Avengers: Doomsday and Avengers: Secret Wars are anticipated not only as the next chapters in the MCU saga but also as potential platforms for cameo appearances. Robert Downey Jr. is set to transition from Iron Man to play Doctor Doom, marking his first live-action portrayal of the character in over a decade. Rumors have also circulated about Chris Evans 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 Doomsday project.

With so many beloved characters potentially returning, it's understandable why fans continue to speculate about Black Widow's possible reappearance, 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 which characters, living or dead, will make a comeback.

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 out on Marvel's latest project, Daredevil: Born Again, with its third episode premiering tonight.