Scarlett Johansson, a veteran of the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), has definitively stated that Black Widow is dead and shows no interest in reprising the role. During an interview with InStyle, while promoting her upcoming role in Jurassic World: Dominion, Johansson addressed fan speculation about Natasha Romanoff's return. Her response was clear: "Natasha is dead. She is dead. She's dead. Okay?"
Johansson emphasized the finality of Black Widow's sacrifice in Avengers: Endgame, where she died saving Clint Barton (Hawkeye). Despite the unambiguous nature of her death, fans continue to theorize about her possible return. Johansson commented on this persistent hope, stating, "They just don't want to believe it... 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.”
This speculation is fueled by upcoming MCU films like Avengers: Doomsday and Avengers: Secret Wars, which are anticipated to feature cameos from past characters. While Robert Downey Jr.'s return as Doctor Doom is confirmed, rumors of other actors, like Chris Evans as Captain America (a claim Evans himself denied), continue to circulate. Similarly, Hayley Atwell's Agent Carter, despite dying twice in the MCU, is rumored for Doomsday. Given this context, it's understandable that fans speculate about Black Widow's potential return, even with Johansson's firm denial. However, we'll have to wait until Avengers: Doomsday (May 1, 2026) and Avengers: Secret Wars (May 7, 2027) to see which characters, living or dead, appear.
For more on the MCU, explore our comprehensive list of upcoming movies and shows. Also, don't miss the latest episode of Daredevil: Born Again, premiering tonight.