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 in the near future. During a recent interview with InStyle, Johansson addressed the future of her iconic Avenger character while also looking forward to her role in the upcoming summer blockbuster, Jurassic World Rebirth. Despite the significant impact Black Widow had on her career, Johansson seems ready to move on from Natasha Romanoff.

"Natasha is dead. She is dead. *She's dead.* Okay?" Johansson emphasized, responding to fans' persistent hopes for her return. "We’re going to *have* to let it go. She saved the world. Let her have her hero moment." Johansson last portrayed Black Widow in the 2021 standalone film, but the character met her definitive end in 2019's Avengers: Endgame, sacrificing herself to save Jeremy Renner's Hawkeye. Despite this clear conclusion, fans continue to speculate about her potential return.

"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 films like Avengers: Doomsday and Avengers: Secret Wars are anticipated to be major events with numerous potential cameos. Speculation is rife, especially with reports that Robert Downey Jr. will transition from Iron Man to play Doctor Doom, and rumors suggesting Chris Evans might return as Captain America, despite his subsequent denial. Additionally, Hayley Atwell's Agent Carter, who has died twice in the MCU, is rumored to appear in the upcoming Doomsday project.

With so many characters potentially returning, it's understandable why fans continue to hope for Black Widow's comeback. However, Johansson's statements make it clear that such a return is unlikely. Fans will have to wait until May 1, 2026, for Avengers: Doomsday, and May 7, 2027, for Avengers: Secret Wars to see who ultimately makes 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 planned. Additionally, don't miss the latest from Marvel with the third episode of Daredevil: Born Again, premiering tonight.