Scarlett Johansson reflects on challenges and rewards of Marvel roles, describing both fulfilling moments and frustrations during her ten years as Natasha Romanoff in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU). In a recent conversation published by Interview Magazine, Johansson shared why leaving the MCU four years ago brought both relief and nostalgia, as she considers her time in the franchise both a career highlight and a demanding commitment.
Struggles with Character Depth and Repetition
Johansson admitted that the experience of playing Black Widow in various films differed greatly depending on the project, noting that not every film gave her character significant material to work with. In some Marvel movies, she found her role rewarding and meaningful, while in others, she felt underutilized amid large ensemble casts and complex plotlines.
“Some of the films that I did for Marvel engaged my character more than others,”
—Scarlett Johansson, Actress
She recalled her dynamic with Chris Evans in “Captain America: The Winter Soldier,” describing their on-screen partnership as energetic and central to the action. In contrast, she said that appearing alongside an expansive roster in other films sometimes led to her being treated primarily as a plot device rather than a developed character.
“Like in [Captain America: The] Winter Soldier with Chris [Evans], we were really dynamic. In some of the other films, the cast was so enormous and there was so much plot to serve that you start to feel like you’re a device to move it along,”
—Scarlett Johansson, Actress
Personal Sacrifices and Demanding Schedules
Discussing the realities of life inside a superhero franchise, Johansson explained how the long filming schedules and physical requirements affected her day-to-day existence and identity as an actor. She described how the need to maintain a consistent look for months at a stretch was restricting, adding a layer of strain beyond the demands of the role itself.
“If you’re committed to five and a half months of that, it’s like, ‘Okay. I can’t paint my nails, I can’t get a haircut.’ These sound like silly problems, but your identity is wrapped up in this job for a long time, and if you’re not doing engaging work as an actor, you feel a little cagey sometimes,”
—Scarlett Johansson, Actress
Such challenges, she suggested, contributed to a sense of frustration and restlessness. Over time, the tension between creative fulfillment and the demands of the superhero genre became difficult to ignore.
No Plans for a Return to the MCU
Johansson’s Black Widow co-star David Harbour, set to reprise his role as Red Guardian in “Avengers: Doomsday,” lightheartedly brought up the idea of her returning as Black Widow in the future. However, Johansson firmly rejected the suggestion, emphasizing the finality of her character‘s arc in “Avengers: Endgame.”
“We all know you’re the secret character. We all know the Black Widow comes back from the dead,”
—David Harbour, Actor
“If I come back from the dead, then half the world’s population dies. Didn’t you see Endgame for Christ’s sake?”
—Scarlett Johansson, Actress
She has previously and repeatedly stated her decision not to revisit the role, addressing persistent fan theories about a possible resurrection of Natasha Romanoff. Johansson stated unequivocally that Black Widow’s story has concluded.
“Natasha is dead. She is dead. She’s dead. Okay?,”
—Scarlett Johansson, Actress
“They [the fans] just don’t want to believe it. 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.”
—Scarlett Johansson, Actress
Moving Forward with New Creative Ventures
Though she has officially left the Marvel universe, Scarlett Johansson continues to seek out challenging roles and opportunities. This summer, she joins another storied franchise by starring in “Jurassic World Rebirth,” set to premiere in theaters on July 2. While she sees no reason to return as Black Widow, Johansson has expressed a tentative interest in directing a Marvel film, hinting that such a role could offer different creative rewards compared to acting.
Meanwhile, other Marvel alumni such as Elizabeth Olsen, who played Scarlet Witch, have spoken positively about their own ongoing involvement in the MCU, while actors like Carrie Coon have shared less favorable experiences, highlighting the complex relationships between talent and the massive franchise.
The Impact of Franchise Storytelling and Fandom
Johansson’s remarks underscore the intense demands placed on actors in large franchises, and the sometimes overlooked personal sacrifices that come with iconic roles. Her comments also highlight the strong connection fans maintain with beloved characters, even years after a performer has stepped away. As new and returning Marvel projects are announced, and Johansson forges a new path with major ventures like “Jurassic World Rebirth,” the impact of her time as Black Widow remains both influential and complex, sparking continued conversation around legacy, identity, and the realities behind superhero storytelling.
