Scarlett Johansson Confirms Black Widow's Fate: 'She's Dead'

Scarlett Johansson, a veteran of the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), has firmly stated that her character, Black Widow, is "dead" and she does not seem interested in reprising the role anytime soon. During an interview with InStyle, Johansson addressed the future of her iconic Avenger character while she prepares to leave her mark on another major franchise, this summer’s Jurassic World Rebirth. Despite Black Widow's significant impact on Johansson's career, she appears uninterested in returning to the role.

Johansson emphatically declared, "Natasha is dead. She is dead. *She's dead.* Okay?" in response to fans' persistent calls for her return. She emphasized the need to accept Black Widow's sacrifice, stating, "We’re going to *have* to let it go. She saved the world. Let her have her hero moment." Although Johansson last portrayed Natasha Romanoff in the 2021 standalone film Black Widow, the character met her in-universe end in 2019's Avengers: Endgame by sacrificing herself to save Jeremy Renner's Clint Barton, also known as Hawkeye. Despite the clear nature of her death, fans continue to speculate on potential ways for her return.

Johansson acknowledged the fans' reluctance to accept the finality of Black Widow's fate, 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 community has a history of hoping for the return of deceased characters, a trend that continues with upcoming films like Avengers: Doomsday and Avengers: Secret Wars, which are anticipated to be major events filled with potential cameos.

Speculation about other MCU characters returning is rampant. Robert Downey Jr. is set to transition from Iron Man to play Doctor Doom, marking his first new live-action role in over a decade. Rumors also circulated about Chris Evans potentially returning 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 next year's Doomsday project. With so many characters potentially returning, it's understandable why fans continue to speculate about Black Widow's fate, despite Johansson's clear statements.

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 an appearance. 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.