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 anytime soon. In a recent interview with InStyle, Johansson discussed her future away from the MCU as she prepares for her role in the upcoming big-budget film, *Jurassic World Rebirth*. Despite her significant contribution to the MCU, Johansson seems ready to move on from Natasha Romanoff.
"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." Johansson last portrayed Black Widow in the 2021 standalone film, but her character met her end in 2019's *Avengers: Endgame* when she sacrificed herself to save Jeremy Renner's Hawkeye. Despite the clear narrative closure, fans continue to speculate about her potential return.
"They just don't want to believe it," Johansson remarked. "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 reviving deceased characters, fueling anticipation for upcoming films like *Avengers: Doomsday* and *Avengers: Secret Wars*, which are expected to feature numerous cameos.
Speculation about returning characters extends beyond Black Widow. Robert Downey Jr. is set to transition from Iron Man to portray Doctor Doom in a new live-action project, while rumors swirl about Chris Evans possibly returning as Captain America, despite his denials. Additionally, Hayley Atwell's Agent Carter, who has died twice in the MCU, is rumored to appear in *Avengers: Doomsday*. With these developments, it's understandable why fans continue to theorize about potential character returns.
Fans will have to wait until May 1, 2026, for *Avengers: Doomsday* and May 7, 2027, for *Avengers: Secret Wars* to see which characters, dead or alive, will make an appearance. In the meantime, you can explore our comprehensive list of every upcoming movie and show Marvel has in the works. Also, don't miss the latest from Marvel with the premiere of the third episode of *Daredevil: Born Again* tonight.
