Scarlett Johansson Criticizes Oscars for Overlooking Avengers: Endgame

Scarlett Johansson, renowned actress with two Academy Award nominations to her name, expressed her bewilderment over the lack of Oscar recognition for the 2019 blockbuster, Avengers: Endgame, in which she portrayed the iconic Black Widow. In a recent interview with Vanity Fair, Johansson remarked, “How did this film not get nominated for an Oscar? It was an impossible movie that should not have worked, that really works as a film — and also, it’s one of the most successful films of all time.”

Despite Avengers: Endgame being hailed as a pinnacle of the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), the Academy Awards have historically been reluctant to honor superhero films with top accolades, such as in the acting and directing categories. The only Marvel film to receive such recognition to date is 2018's Black Panther. Johansson's performance as Natasha Romanoff, from her debut in 2010's Iron Man to her poignant death in Endgame, was widely considered award-worthy.

However, Johansson shared with Vanity Fair her doubts about returning to the MCU. She stated, “It would be very hard for me to understand in what capacity [returning] would make sense for me, for the character that I play.” She emphasized her fondness for her co-stars, saying, “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.”

Following Black Widow's demise in Endgame, Johansson reprised her role as Natasha Romanoff in the 2021 prequel film, Black Widow, which she also executive produced. This marked her final appearance in the MCU, rounding off her journey as the beloved character.

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