Actress Scarlett Johansson, known for her two Academy Award nominations, expressed bewilderment over the lack of Oscar recognition for Avengers: Endgame, in which she portrayed Black Widow. Despite the film's status as a 2019 Marvel Cinematic Universe blockbuster and its success as one of the highest-grossing movies ever, it received only a single nomination for visual effects.

In a candid interview with Vanity Fair, Johansson questioned the Academy's oversight, stating, “How did this film not get nominated for an Oscar? It was an impossible movie that should not have worked, that really works as a film — and also, it’s one of the most successful films of all time.” Avengers: Endgame is widely regarded as one of the pinnacle achievements within the MCU, yet the Academy has historically been reluctant to award superhero films in top categories such as acting and directing. The only Marvel film to break this trend so far is 2018's Black Panther, which secured multiple nominations. Johansson's performance as Natasha Romanoff, from her debut in Iron Man 2 to her poignant death in Endgame, was compelling and arguably deserving of recognition.

Despite her attachment to the role, Johansson hinted at a potential departure from the MCU. She shared with Vanity Fair, “It would be very hard for me to understand in what capacity [returning] would make sense for me, for the character that I play.” She emphasized the completeness of Natasha Romanoff’s arc, adding, “I miss my buddies and really would love to be with them forever, but what works about the character is that her story is complete. I don’t want to mess with that. For fans, too — it’s important for them.”

Following Black Widow’s demise in Endgame, Johansson reprised her role in the 2021 prequel film Black Widow, which she also executive produced. This film provided fans with a deeper look into Romanoff’s backstory and served as a fitting farewell to the beloved character.