Scarlett Johansson directing her Marvel Cinematic Universe return may be the next big step for the iconic franchise. As one of the original Avengers and the face behind Natasha Romanoff, Johansson closed her on-screen chapter with 2021’s Black Widow, but recent comments at Cannes 2025 spark hope that her influence in the MCU is far from over.
Natasha Romanoff’s Heroic Finale Left a Lasting Impression
For nearly a decade, Scarlett Johansson’s portrayal of Black Widow stood out in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, bringing depth to the human SHIELD agent among a team of super soldiers and legendary gods. Natasha Romanoff’s fate was sealed during the events of Avengers: Endgame, as she teamed up with Clint Barton to secure the Soul Stone, leading to her ultimate sacrifice on Vormir. This emotional moment not only shocked fans who were expecting a major character loss but also served as a fitting tribute to her journey for redemption.
While the original six Avengers were mostly divided by the events of Captain America: Civil War, they briefly reunited in the battles against Thanos. However, the final confrontation unfolded without the presence of Black Widow, adding weight to Natasha’s sacrifice and sealing her legacy within the MCU. The poignant farewell in Black Widow’s solo film solidified her exit, but the longing among fans for Scarlett Johansson’s return never truly faded, especially after recent reappearances by fellow Avengers such as Robert Downey Jr.
New Opportunities for Johansson in the Marvel Universe
Since stepping away from her role as Black Widow, Johansson has addressed questions regarding a possible MCU return, consistently noting that her character’s story had reached a natural conclusion and that a comeback on-screen would be improbable. However, a notable shift emerged during the 2025 Cannes Film Festival, where Johansson opened up about envisioning a future behind the camera within the Marvel universe.
“I think the movies that I like that are big action movies also have the human connectivity piece. 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… [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 [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, Deadline Interview at Cannes 2025
This statement, made while promoting her directorial debut Eleanor the Great, reflects Johansson’s evolving creative ambitions and her desire to explore stories that center around authentic human connections. Her proven success as a producer on Black Widow showcased a deep understanding of Natasha Romanoff’s character and signals her capability for a leadership role in shaping the MCU’s future stories from a director’s perspective.
Why Johansson Could Bring a Fresh Vision to the MCU
Johansson’s passion for exploring the relationships between characters is in line with some of the MCU’s most celebrated films. Projects like Captain America: The Winter Soldier and the forthcoming Thunderbolts have resonated with audiences not just for their spectacular action but for their focus on complicated bonds and personal struggles. Johansson highlighted in her recent interviews that action films work best when grounded in the reality of emotion and family—a sentiment reflected in the standout dynamic between Natasha and Yelena in Black Widow.
The Marvel Cinematic Universe, while built on grand battles and fantastical worlds, has often found its strongest moments by delving into the complexities of friendship, loss, and family. Johansson’s vision aligns with this tradition, offering a chance to expand the franchise’s emotional depth by telling stories that emphasize the humanity within its heroes. Bringing her experience both as an actor and producer, Johansson is uniquely positioned to enhance the MCU’s future as a storyteller from the director’s chair, rather than in front of the camera.
Marvel’s Upcoming Slate and the Potential for Director-Led Change
As the MCU prepares its next lineup of major films, the potential for Scarlett Johansson to step in as a director comes at a pivotal time. Big-budget projects such as Thunderbolts*, The Fantastic Four: First Steps, Avengers: Doomsday, Spider-Man: Brand New Day, and Avengers: Secret Wars are slated to further the franchise’s universe. These films could benefit from the nuanced, character-driven approach that Johansson has championed in her recent projects.
With her directorial debut at Cannes and a history of strong creative collaboration with Marvel Studios, Johansson’s potential involvement behind the camera could lead to a shift in how the MCU crafts its stories. Even after departing her role as Black Widow, the positive relationship between Johansson and the Marvel team continues to foster speculation about her creative return.
By embracing Scarlett Johansson directing her Marvel Cinematic Universe return, Marvel could mark the beginning of a new era—one shaped by leaders both familiar with the franchise’s history and dedicated to storytelling that resonates with viewers. Fans hoping for a balance of action and authentic emotional storytelling may soon see those hopes realized, with Johansson’s directorial vision offering a promising path for the next phase of the MCU.
