The Marvel Cinematic Universe’s Scarlett Johansson recently spoke up about whether she would return to the franchise, not as an actress, but as a director. Johansson previously produced and starred in 2021’s Black Widow, a long-awaited solo adventure for her founding Avenger. The film also starred Florence Pugh, David Harbour, Rachel Weisz, Olga Kurylenko, and Ray Winstone.

In an interview with ᴅᴇᴀᴅline to promote her 2025 directorial debut Eleanor the Great, the actress explained her perspective on filmmaking, which prioritizes “human connectivity.” Johansson affirmed that she would be interested in directing a Marvel movie because the “big” projects she likes tend to be more character-focused in general.

She then brought up Black Widow as an example. Johansson stated: “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 [her sister Yelena Belova] and this family drama that [..] is this small movie […] in a huge world is, I think, a way of […] maintaining the integrity of […] the idea of human connection.” Continuing, she clarified that films that find a way to make a story personal and small even in a wider universe “are the big movies that [she loves].“

What Scarlett Johansson’s MCU Comments Mean

Previously, Johansson addressed the possibility of returning to her role as Natasha Romanoff/Black Widow, but she shut down rumors that she would be appearing in Avengers: Doomsday. The actress explained:

“It would be very hard for me to understand in what capacity [returning] would make sense for me, for the character that I play. I miss my buddies and really would love to be with them forever, but what works about the character is that her story is complete. I don’t want to mess with that. For fans too—it’s important for them.”

Regardless of whether she returns as an actress, the multi-hyphenate star could return to the MCU in another capacity. As mentioned, she produced Black Widow, so the precedent exists for her to take a leadership role in a Marvel project. Moreover, she has crossed over into directorial territory with the premiere of Eleanor the Great, so she’s proven she can helm a film.

Our Take On Scarlett Johansson’s MCU Comments

If Johansson is interested in directing an MCU film, then there are many options for projects that may fit her character-focused style. Since she has worked in a creative capacity with Yelena’s character before, a Black Widow or Thunderbolts* follow-up could be a great match for Johansson.

Alternatively, with the MCU pivoting to focus on the X-Men after Avengers: Secret Wars, the actress could helm a project focused on one of Marvel’s mutant-focused properties. Either way, Johansson returning to the MCU would be a treat for long-term fans.

Upcoming MCU Movies

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  Thunderbolts*

  
  
  
  

  
  

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  The Fantastic Four: First Steps

  
  
  
  

  
  

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  Avengers: Doomsday

  
  
  
  

  
  

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  Spider-Man: Brand New Day

  
  
  
  

  
  

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  Avengers: Secret Wars

  
  
  
  

  
  

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