Scarlett Johansson, best known for her iconic portrayal of Black Widow in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, is reportedly negotiating a role in the upcoming DC Universe film The Batman Part II, set to star Robert Pattinson and be directed by Matt Reeves. The project, involving major names in superhero cinema, is scheduled to start filming in the spring, raising anticipation about Johansson’s potential shift to the rival cinematic universe.
Scarlett Johansson’s Possible Transition from Marvel to DC
Speculation intensified as reports emerged confirming Johansson’s discussions for a part in The Batman Part II, marking her first major appearance in the DC Universe. This move comes after a significant run portraying Natasha Romanoff, a character she played across several Marvel movies, including The Avengers and her own Black Widow feature. Johansson previously clarified that her time as Black Widow has ended following the character’s storyline in Avengers: Endgame, making her potential move to DC even more notable.
“Natasha is dead. She is dead. She’s dead. Okay?”
— Scarlett Johansson, Actress
“[Fans] just don’t want to believe it. They’re like, ‘But she could come back!’”
— Scarlett Johansson, Actress
Background on Johansson’s Departure from Marvel
Johansson’s confirmed departure from the Marvel Cinematic Universe stems from both narrative developments and off-screen disputes. In September 2021, she settled a legal dispute with Disney after challenging the simultaneous theatrical and digital release of Black Widow, which she argued affected her contractual bonuses that were linked to box office performance. Despite this, she expressed openness to contributing to future Marvel projects behind the scenes rather than as an actor.
During the Cannes Film Festival, Johansson discussed her approach to filmmaking and the importance of human elements in blockbuster movies.
“I think the movies that I like, that are big action movies, also have the human connectivity piece,”
— Scarlett Johansson, Actress
“Even producing Black Widow and being a part of the production of that, and the development of the story, and the story between Natasha and Yelena [Florence Pugh]… [there is,] I think, a way of doing it, a way of maintaining the integrity of the idea of human connection, family, disappointment, all of the things that were themes in [her directorial debut, Eleanor the Great], and doing it in a giant way in a giant universe — there’s ways of doing that… So, yeah, definitely, it could be, it would be fun.”
— Scarlett Johansson, Actress
The Batman Part II: Production Timeline and Key Players
The anticipated sequel to The Batman sees Matt Reeves returning to direct, after he and Mattson Tomlin finished the script in June. David Zaslav, CEO of Warner Bros. Discovery, later confirmed that filming is expected to begin in spring 2026. The cast will be led once again by Robert Pattinson, who will reprise his role as Bruce Wayne, known as the Dark Knight. The film is slated for an October 1, 2027 release, aiming to build on the gritty atmosphere and success of the previous installment. Meanwhile, Zoë Kravitz, who played Selina Kyle (Catwoman), is reportedly not attached to this sequel, making room for new prominent characters.
Other Projects in Johansson’s Career
While negotiations continue for The Batman Part II, Johansson is also scheduled to lead in Mike Flanagan’s new installment in The Exorcist series. Universal and Blumhouse have shifted their focus to this project, which will serve as a standalone story set within The Exorcist universe, and will be filmed in New York City. This film marks the seventh in the long-running franchise and represents Johansson’s continued exploration of diverse and challenging roles outside of superhero genres.
Industry Reactions and What Comes Next
The news of Scarlett Johansson possibly joining the DC Universe has stirred significant interest and discussion among fans and industry observers, given her longstanding connection to the Marvel universe. Entertainment Weekly has contacted DC, Warner Bros., and Johansson seeking comments on the development, reflecting widespread curiosity about the final casting and its implications. If confirmed, Johansson’s move would not only strengthen DC’s roster with an acclaimed talent but might also signal a shift in the landscape of major superhero franchises, as actors cross the boundaries of long-standing cinematic rivals. With major production and casting decisions ahead for The Batman Part II, audiences are closely watching how Johansson’s potential involvement could reshape the DC universe’s future.
