MCU Star Scarlett Johansson Casts Doubt on Black Widow Return: '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 discussed the future of the Avenger in the MCU. As she prepares to leave her mark on another major franchise with this summer's *Jurassic World Rebirth*, Marvel fans continue to speculate on what it would take to see her return as Natasha Romanoff. However, Johansson made it clear that she is ready to move on from the character that played a significant role in her career.

"Natasha is dead. She is dead. *She's dead.* Okay?" Johansson emphasized, addressing fans' hopes for her return. "We’re going to *have* to let it go. She saved the world. Let her have her hero moment." Despite her last appearance as Black Widow in the 2021 standalone film, the character met her end in 2019's *Avengers: Endgame* when she sacrificed herself to save Jeremy Renner's Clint Barton, also known as Hawkeye. This was a definitive death in the MCU, yet fans continue to theorize about possible 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 bringing back deceased characters, and upcoming event movies like *Avengers: Doomsday* and *Avengers: Secret Wars* are anticipated not only as the next chapters in the MCU saga but also as potential showcases for numerous cameos. Robert Downey Jr. is set to transition from Iron Man to play Doctor Doom in a live-action film, marking his return to the MCU after a significant hiatus. There have also been rumors, later denied by Chris Evans, that he might reprise his role as Captain America. Meanwhile, Hayley Atwell's Agent Carter, who has died twice in the MCU, is rumored to appear in *Avengers: Doomsday*.

With so many beloved characters speculated to return, it's understandable why fans continue to hope for Black Widow's comeback, 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 who, whether living or dead, will make an appearance.

For more on the MCU, check out our comprehensive list of every upcoming movie and show Marvel has in the works. You can also catch up with Marvel's latest project, Daredevil: Born Again, which will premiere its third episode tonight.