Scarlett Johansson Criticizes Oscars for Ignoring Avengers: Endgame

Actress Scarlett Johansson, who boasts two Academy Award nominations, remains puzzled over why Avengers: Endgame, in which she portrayed Black Widow, only secured a single Oscar nod for visual effects. In a recent interview with Vanity Fair, Johansson expressed her bewilderment, saying, "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."

Avengers: Endgame is widely regarded as one of the premier achievements within the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU). However, the Academy has traditionally been hesitant to award top honors, such as those in acting and directing categories, to superhero films. The only Marvel movie to break this trend significantly is 2018's Black Panther. Despite this, Johansson's performance as Natasha Romanoff, from her debut in 2010's Iron Man 2 to her poignant sacrifice in Endgame, was undeniably compelling and worthy of recognition.

Johansson also shared with Vanity Fair her doubts about reprising her role in the MCU. "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 remarked. She emphasized the completeness of Natasha Romanoff's arc, 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."

Every MCU Movie Tier List

Every MCU Movie Tier List

Following Black Widow's demise in Endgame, Johansson made one final appearance as Natasha Romanoff in the 2021 prequel film, Black Widow, which she also executive produced.