Scarlett Johansson Criticizes Oscars for Overlooking Avengers: Endgame

Scarlett Johansson, known for her compelling performances, has garnered two Academy Award nominations throughout her career. However, she expressed bewilderment over the lack of recognition for the 2019 blockbuster Avengers: Endgame, in which she portrayed the iconic character Black Widow. Despite the film's critical and commercial success, it only received a single Oscar nomination for visual effects. In a candid interview with Vanity Fair, Johansson questioned, "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."

While Avengers: Endgame is widely regarded as a pinnacle of the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), the Academy has traditionally been reluctant to award top honors, such as those in acting and directing, to films in the superhero genre. The only exception to date within the MCU is Black Panther, which received multiple nominations in 2018. Johansson's portrayal of Natasha Romanoff, spanning from her debut in Iron Man 2 in 2010 to her poignant death in Endgame, was undoubtedly noteworthy and could have been a contender for an award.

Despite her affection for the character, Johansson indicated in the same Vanity Fair interview that she is unlikely to return 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. 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."

Every MCU Movie Tier List

Every MCU Movie Tier List

Following Black Widow's demise in Endgame, Johansson made a final appearance as Natasha Romanoff in the 2021 prequel film Black Widow, which she also executive produced. This film provided fans with closure to her character's arc, further cementing Johansson's legacy within the MCU.