Scarlett Johansson Confirms Black Widow's Demise: '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 appears uninterested in reprising the role anytime soon. During an interview with InStyle, Johansson discussed her future projects, including the upcoming big-budget film Jurassic World Rebirth, while addressing the persistent speculation among Marvel fans about her potential return as Natasha Romanoff. Despite Black Widow's significant impact on Johansson's career, she remains resolute in her stance.

"Natasha is dead. She is dead. She's dead. Okay?" Johansson emphasized, responding to fans' hopes for her character's return. "We’re going to have to let it go. She saved the world. Let her have her hero moment." Although Johansson last portrayed Black Widow in the 2021 standalone film, the character met her definitive end in Avengers: Endgame (2019), sacrificing herself to save Clint Barton, also known as Hawkeye. Despite the clarity of her character's fate, fans continue to theorize about possible 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 pivotal chapters but also as potential platforms for cameos. Speculation about returning characters is rampant, fueled by rumors such as Robert Downey Jr. taking on the role of Doctor Doom and reports about Chris Evans reprising Captain America, which he later denied. Additionally, Hayley Atwell’s Agent Carter, who has died twice in the MCU, is rumored to appear in Doomsday.

With so many possibilities, it's understandable that fans continue to speculate about who might return, despite Johansson's clear statements. The wait continues until Avengers: Doomsday premieres on May 1, 2026, and Avengers: Secret Wars on May 7, 2027, 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 venture, Daredevil: Born Again, with its third episode premiering tonight.