Scarlett Johansson is in advanced discussions to join the cast of The Batman 2, marking her first return to a superhero blockbuster since her acclaimed run as Black Widow in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. The Scarlett Johansson Batman 2 casting could see the actress share the screen with Robert Pattinson as the franchise expands its roster of notable talent.
Johansson Steps Into Gotham: New Developments Emerge
Johansson, who left the Marvel film universe following her character’s death in Avengers: Endgame and a final stand-alone feature, appears poised to enter the DC film realm. With two more Avengers movies in the pipeline at Marvel, Johansson is now on track to make her mark in another high-stakes superhero saga. If negotiations conclude successfully, she will join Robert Pattinson as one of the few actors officially confirmed for the next Batman installment.
Recent reports detail that Johansson’s involvement comes after Emma Stone, known for portraying Gwen Stacy in The Amazing Spider-Man films, declined a key role in The Batman 2. According to sources at The InSneider, after learning Stone wouldn’t take the part, Johansson reportedly asked her team to actively chase this opportunity in the 2026 DC film. The character in question is rumored to be one of Batman’s notorious adversaries, intensifying anticipation for a fresh confrontation in Gotham City.
Mystery Surrounds Johansson’s Character Amidst Rumors
No official details have been confirmed regarding whom Johansson might portray in The Batman 2. Speculation is thriving, with fans and insiders discussing possibilities including classic villains such as Poison Ivy and Phantasm, as well as iconic figures like reporter Vicki Vale. As production is set to start in spring 2026, it is expected that more revelations about Johansson’s character and narrative role will surface closer to filming.
Johansson has firmly stated in numerous interviews that her time as Black Widow is finished and that she wishes to honor the completeness of that storyline. On May 14, 2025, she reinforced this stance in an interview with Vanity Fair,
“What works about the character is that her story is complete.”
– Scarlett Johansson, Actress. She explained her reluctance to revisit the Marvel role, wanting to preserve Black Widow’s legacy.
Star Power and Returning Faces Set the Stage
Should Johansson’s deal finalize, she could interact with several returning characters from the first Batman film. Robert Pattinson reprises his lead role, but Zoë Kravitz is reportedly not expected back as Catwoman. This development follows Selina Kyle’s departure from both Batman and Gotham City at the conclusion of the previous film. While Kravitz’s absence might reshape inter-character dynamics, other key cast members are slated to return, including Colin Farrell as Penguin, Andy Serkis as Alfred Pennyworth, and Jeffrey Wright as Jim Gordon.
Adding to the momentum, James Gunn shared with ScreenRant on July 8 that The Batman 2’s script is “great,” a sentiment later echoed by several actors involved. With the creative team and cast converging on high expectations, anticipation is building for how Gotham’s storylines will evolve.
Looking Ahead: Production Timeline and Release Date
The Batman 2 is scheduled to commence filming in spring 2026, with the theatrical release set for October 1, 2027. As the DC franchise continues to attract premier talent and generate intrigue about its evolving cast of villains and heroes, Johansson’s potential addition could have significant implications for both the film and her screen legacy. DC and Batman fans alike will be watching closely for confirmation and more insights about the character she might bring to life.
