When it comes to the Marvel Cinematic Universe rumors, few topics resurface as frequently as the possible return of fallen heroes. With ‘Avengers: Doomsday’ shaping up to be one of the most ambitious Marvel projects to date, speculation has been rampant about who might return and how.
However, Scarlett Johansson, the actress behind the beloved Natasha Romanoff aka Black Widow, is having none of it.
Why Scarlett Johansson Is Done Playing Black Widow
During a recent candid interview with her Black Widow co-star David Harbour for Interview Magazine, Johansson delivered a firm, and rather blunt, response when asked if she would be returning for ‘Avengers: Doomsday’. “If I come back from the dead, then half the world’s population dies. Didn’t you see Endgame for Christ’s sake?”
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Her tone wasn’t a clear signal that she saw her Marvel arc as complete. And coming from someone who spent over a decade shaping a pivotal character in the MCU, her words carry weight. Scarlett Johansson has long expressed satisfaction with Natasha Romanoff’s storyline. Despite some fans feeling her solo film Black Widow came too late in the timeline, the actress herself has stood by the conclusion of her arc.
The sacrifice Natasha made in ‘Endgame’ was not just a plot device. The moment brought emotional resolution to a character who had long carried the burdens of her past. In previous interviews, Johansson explained her reasoning with grace and care for her fans. “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.”
That’s not to say she’s turned her back on the Marvel universe entirely. On the contrary, Johansson has expressed interest in returning behind the scenes. Now a director and producer, she’s open to contributing to the MCU in ways that don’t involve donning the suit. “I miss my buddies and really would love to be with them forever,” she admitted, “but directing these kinds of stories is something I’m passionate about.”
Hugh Jackman’s Wolverine Might Be Returning For ‘Avengers: Doomsday’
While Scarlett Johansson is shutting down speculation, another Marvel veteran seems to be fanning the flames. Hugh Jackman, who made his long-awaited return as Wolverine in ‘Deadpool & Wolverine’, is now at the center of ‘Avengers: Doomsday’ rumors. All the rumors were fueled by a social media post from Daniel Stevens, Jackman’s longtime stunt double.
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Stevens recently confirmed he’s working at London’s Pinewood Studios, coincidentally the same location where ‘Avengers: Doomsday’ is being filmed. This, combined with Jackman’s own training videos shared on Instagram, has led fans to believe that Logan might be unsheathing his claws once more. Given the enthusiastic reception Jackman received for his comeback, it wouldn’t be surprising.
After all, if Robert Downey Jr. is reportedly returning, is anyone truly gone? However, Johansson seems determined to make her goodbye stick. Additionally, Scarlett Johansson’s no-nonsense dismissal of ‘Avengers: Doomsday’ rumors reflect a broader truth about superhero franchises: finality is rare. However, perhaps what makes Natasha Romanoff’s story so powerful is its permanence. Her end meant something, and she’s proud of that.
