Scarlett Johansson is in discussions to take on an undisclosed role in “The Batman 2,” generating excitement and speculation across the film community. The focus keyword, Scarlett Johansson The Batman 2, embodies the intrigue as fans consider Johansson’s potential debut alongside Robert Pattinson, with Matt Reeves set to return as director.
This comes after Johansson’s departure from the Marvel Cinematic Universe, where she played Natasha Romanoff, also known as Black Widow, until her character’s fate was sealed in “Avengers: Endgame.” Notably, she headlined “Jurassic Park Rebirth” earlier in the year and is slated to appear in Mike Flanagan’s forthcoming “Exorcist” project. Her move toward DC marks a significant shift for the actress, who is now at the center of widespread commentary following reports of her possible involvement in the new Batman film. Adding to the intrigue, Zoe Kravitz, who played Catwoman in Matt Reeves’ first Batman film, will reportedly not reprise her role.
Speculation Mounts Over Johansson’s Role
With virtually no official information about the character Johansson might portray, speculation has dominated platforms such as X and Reddit. While an entirely original character remains a possibility, speculation is centered around several established figures from Batman lore, each offering a different dynamic for both the actress and the storyline.
The Leading Fan Theories on Johansson’s Character
One leading theory places Johansson as Andrea Beaumont, also known as Phantasm, first seen in the animated film “Batman: Mask of the Phantasm.” Andrea Beaumont leads a secret life as a vigilante targeting Gotham’s criminal underworld, with close romantic ties to Bruce Wayne and a critical secret identity reveal—a narrative arc that could offer Johansson a deeply layered character, though such a casting would be hard to keep under wraps due to the dramatic plot twist.
Another popular suggestion is Pamela Isley, or Poison Ivy, previously played live by Uma Thurman in “Batman & Robin.” Poison Ivy’s abilities to control plants have made her a favorite among fans eager to see a new interpretation, but the grounded style of Matt Reeves’ Gotham universe and rumors reported by the InSneider suggest this option is unlikely. Additionally, questions arise about whether Johansson would reprise a comic redhead role, given her history as Black Widow.
The possibility of Johansson playing someone associated with the Court of Owls, a villainous secret society within Gotham, also has traction. The group’s animated film introduced Samantha Vanaver as Grandmaster and partner to Talon William Cobb, both of whom could provide compelling roles for Johansson. Other related names include Cressida Clarke and Mary Turner (who later joined the Birds of Prey), opening narrative pathways that mix intrigue and action, and connect to significant Batman adversaries such as Ra’s al Ghul and his daughters, Talia and Nyssa.
Some fans have floated Birds of Prey members as potential options, though another Dr. Quinzell/Harley Quinn is regarded as unlikely due to Margot Robbie’s recent performances and the concurrent storyline in “Joker 2.” Still, possibilities like Batgirl, Black Canary, or Huntress remain open, as the superhero team-up concept holds appeal for both creative teams and audiences.
Vicki Vale, a classic Batman supporting character, also enters the conversation. Vale, a reporter played by Kim Basinger in the original 1989 film, is often portrayed as Bruce Wayne’s love interest and a figure in distress. However, given Johansson’s recent, more empowered roles, significant changes to Vale’s character might be expected if she is chosen for this part.
A more dramatic reimagining could see Johansson as Lady Arkham—a reinvented, antagonistic version of Vicki Vale (Victoria Arkham), the leader of the Children of Arkham and antagonist with a direct vendetta against the Wayne family, as seen in the “Batman: The Telltale Series” video games. This lesser-known character presents an opportunity for a fresh take on familiar Gotham dynamics.
Another compelling antagonist possibility is Talia al Ghul, the formidable daughter of Ra’s al Ghul and head of the League of Assassins. Talia previously appeared in “The Dark Knight Rises” as portrayed by Marion Cotillard. Some believe Johansson could instead be cast as Talia’s half-sister Nyssa, who has featured in series like “Arrow” and “Gotham,” further expanding the tangled web of Gotham’s adversaries.
Julie Madison, often cited as Batman’s original comic book girlfriend and previously portrayed by Elle Macpherson in “Batman & Robin,” is another potential candidate. Johansson’s involvement could grant the filmmakers a blank slate to modernize and embellish the character, potentially shifting her into a major narrative anchor for Bruce Wayne.
Lastly, theories involving gender-bending bring up Tommy Elliot (Hush), a significant Batman adversary and childhood friend turned villain. Given Matt Reeves’ stated intent to tie Bruce Wayne’s history more deeply into the sequel’s plot, a reimagined Hush—potentially as a female character—has attracted speculation. Fans note, however, that Hush’s traits overlap in some respects with Paul Dano’s interpretation of The Riddler in the previous installment, complicating the likelihood but not ruling it out.
What the Casting Means for The Batman Universe
If Scarlett Johansson finalizes her role in “The Batman 2,” her presence is poised to introduce fresh energy and complexity into Matt Reeves’ Gotham. Her reputation for nuanced performances may inspire creative shifts in how supporting characters and villains are depicted, driven by both fan enthusiasm and franchise ambitions. The departure of Zoe Kravitz as Catwoman widens the creative space for Johansson’s character, whether that role emerges from deep comic lore or is an original addition.
With rumors continuing and no confirmation yet on Johansson’s part, the conversation remains active among fans and industry observers alike. As the casting process unfolds, anticipation builds for announcements from Matt Reeves and DC regarding the final shape of “The Batman 2,” its cast, and especially the nature of Scarlett Johansson’s involvement—whether as Andrea Beaumont, a Bird of Prey, a Court of Owls grandmaster, or another reinvented Gotham legend.
Won't be Poison Ivy, by the way… https://t.co/TtuJB04XfO
— Jeff Sneider (@TheInSneider) December 3, 2025
