Scarlett Johansson addresses potential return as Black Widow in MCU

Scarlett Johansson discussed the possibility of reprising her role as Black Widow in future MCU films.

Scarlett Johansson has once again addressed the possibility of returning to the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) as Black Widow, emphasizing that Natasha Romanoff's story concluded with her sacrifice in Avengers: Endgame (2019). 

In a March 2025 interview with InStyle, Johansson firmly stated, “Natasha is dead. She is dead. She's dead. Okay?" While some fans continue to hope for her return, she believes the character’s heroic arc was completed when Natasha saved the universe, urging fans to "let it go."

Johansson’s portrayal of Natasha left a significant mark on the MCU, particularly as her character played a key role in Avengers: Endgame. The 2021 Black Widow solo film, which took place between Captain America: Civil War and Avengers: Infinity War, explored gaps in Natasha’s backstory and introduced Florence Pugh’s Yelena Belova as the new Black Widow. 

Johansson, while executive producing the Thunderbolts project connected to her film, seems to have drawn a line on revisiting her role.

Despite Johansson’s firm position on the end of her character's arc, rumors about her potential return in Avengers: Doomsday and Avengers: Secret Wars continue to circulate. 

While she has expressed a desire to explore more of Black Widow’s history, particularly her bond with Hawkeye, Johansson remains clear that her time as Natasha Romanoff is over.

In the same interview, Johansson discussed her boundaries with fans, revealing that she does not take photos with them outside of events. She explained that she prefers to maintain her personal space and not be identified as a public figure during her private time. Although her stance may upset some, it reflects her wish to keep a clear line between her personal and professional life.