Scarlett Johansson, a veteran of the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), has definitively stated that Black Widow is dead and shows no interest in reprising the role. During an interview with InStyle, while promoting her upcoming role in Jurassic World Dominion, Johansson addressed fan speculation about Natasha Romanoff's potential return. She emphatically declared, “Natasha is dead. She is dead. She's dead. Okay?”

Johansson acknowledges the character's significance in her career but firmly believes it's time to accept Black Widow's fate. Her death in Avengers: Endgame, a sacrifice to save Hawkeye (Jeremy Renner), was presented as unambiguous. Despite this, fan theories persist regarding potential resurrections. Johansson commented on this unwavering belief, stating, “They just don't want to believe it...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 speculation surrounding the return of deceased characters is not new to the MCU. Upcoming films like Avengers: Doomsday and Avengers: Secret Wars are anticipated as potential vehicles for cameos, fueling further fan theories. While Robert Downey Jr.'s return as Doctor Doom is confirmed, rumors of Chris Evans's return as Captain America, later denied by Evans himself, and Hayley Atwell's potential appearance as Agent Carter in Doomsday, despite her character's on-screen deaths, continue to circulate.

Given the numerous rumors of returning characters, the persistent speculation about Black Widow's return is understandable. However, Johansson's statement leaves little room for doubt. Fans will have to wait until Avengers: Doomsday (May 1, 2026) and Avengers: Secret Wars (May 7, 2027) to see which characters, living or dead, will appear.

For more MCU news, explore our list of upcoming Marvel movies and shows. Don't miss the latest episode of Daredevil: Born Again, premiering tonight.