Scarlett Johansson Confirms Black Widow's Death, MCU Return Unlikely

Scarlett Johansson, a veteran of the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), has firmly stated that her character, Black Widow, is "dead" and she doesn't seem interested in returning to the role anytime soon. During an interview with InStyle, Johansson discussed her future, highlighting her upcoming role in the big-budget film Jurassic World Rebirth this summer. Despite the significant role Black Widow played in her career, Johansson appears uninterested in reprising the character.

"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 Hawkeye. Despite this clear narrative closure, fans continue to speculate about potential comebacks.

"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 MCU has a history of reviving deceased characters, fueling speculation around upcoming event movies like Avengers: Doomsday and Avengers: Secret Wars. These films are not only seen as the next chapter for the MCU but also as potential platforms for cameo-filled blockbusters. Robert Downey Jr., for example, is set to transition from Iron Man to play Doctor Doom, while rumors about other characters returning have circulated. Notably, The Wrap reported in December that Chris Evans might return as Captain America, though he later denied these claims.

Moreover, Hayley Atwell's Agent Carter, who has died twice in the MCU, is rumored to appear in the upcoming Doomsday project. With so many characters potentially making comebacks, it's understandable why fans continue to speculate about Black Widow's return, despite Johansson's firm 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 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.