Scarlett Johansson Confirms: Black Widow 'Is Dead', No MCU Return

Scarlett Johansson, a prominent figure in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), has firmly stated that her character, Black Widow, is "dead" and she appears uninterested in reprising the role in the near future. During an interview with InStyle, Johansson discussed her move away from the MCU as she prepares for her role in the upcoming summer blockbuster, Jurassic World Rebirth. Despite the significant impact Black Widow had on her career, Johansson seems ready to leave Natasha Romanoff behind.

"Natasha is dead. She is dead. *She's dead.* Okay?" Johansson emphasized, directly addressing fans who hope for her character's return. "We’re going to *have* to let it go. She saved the world. Let her have her hero moment." This statement comes after Black Widow's definitive death in Avengers: Endgame in 2019, where she sacrificed herself to save Clint Barton, also known as Hawkeye. Despite the clarity of her character's demise, fans continue to speculate about possible ways Black Widow could return.

"They just don't want to believe it," Johansson remarked on the persistent fan theories. "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 desire to see deceased characters return is not new in the MCU. Upcoming films like Avengers: Doomsday and Avengers: Secret Wars, slated for May 1, 2026, and May 7, 2027, respectively, have fueled speculation about potential cameos, including characters who have died in the universe. While Robert Downey Jr. is confirmed to play Doctor Doom, rumors have circulated about other familiar faces returning, such as Chris Evans as Captain America, although he has denied these claims. Additionally, Hayley Atwell's Agent Carter, who has died twice in the MCU, is rumored to appear in Doomsday.

As fans eagerly await the release of these films, speculation continues about who might return, living or dead. For those interested in staying updated on the MCU, you can explore our comprehensive list of every upcoming movie and show Marvel has in the works. Additionally, fans can catch the latest episodes of Daredevil: Born Again, with its third episode premiering tonight.