While superheroes are frequently perceived as invincible, Scarlett Johansson wishes to gently remind all that even some of the bravest heroes deserve a solemn farewell. In an interview with InStyle released on Tuesday, the renowned actress from "Lost In Translation" tackled the relentless inquiries concerning her Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) alter ego, Natasha Romanoff, alias The Black Widow, whose screen demise occurred in 2019's "Avengers: Endgame."
"Natasha is deceased. She has passed away. She's no more. Understand?" Johansson emphatically clarified to the publication.
For those following closely, her character—a highly proficient assassin—was an indispensable member of the superhero ensemble known as the Avengers. She sacrificed her life to obtain an Infinity Stone, a feat that ultimately vanquished the extraterrestrial supervillain Thanos and rescued the universe.
As Marvel paves the way for the next chapter of its cinematic universe—commencing with this summer's "Fantastic Four: First Steps"—speculations regarding Natasha's potential resurgence within the franchise have been rampant.
Johansson swiftly dampens such rumors. "They find it hard to accept. They keep saying, ‘But she could still return!'" she revealed to the publication. "Look, I believe the equilibrium of the entire universe rested in her hands."
She further elaborated, "We must release our hold on her. She saved the world. Allow her to bask in her heroic moment."
The revitalized Avengers lineup will make its debut in 2026's "Avengers: Doomsday," a film marking Robert Downey Jr.'s return to the MCU, albeit not as Iron Man, a role he has portrayed in nine films since 2008. Instead, he will embody the villainous Dr. Doom.
