Scarlett Johansson Criticizes Oscars for Ignoring Avengers: Endgame

Actress Scarlett Johansson, with two Academy Award nominations to her name, expressed her bewilderment over the limited Oscar recognition for "Avengers: Endgame," where she portrayed Black Widow. In a recent interview with Vanity Fair, Johansson questioned, “How did this film not get nominated for an Oscar?” She highlighted the film's uniqueness, stating, “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 standout entries in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), yet the Academy has traditionally overlooked superhero and genre films for top honors like acting and directing. The only Marvel film to receive such acclaim to date is 2018’s "Black Panther." Despite this, Johansson's performance as Natasha Romanoff, from her debut in "Iron Man 2" in 2010 to her poignant death in "Endgame," was considered by many to be worthy of awards.

Johansson also shared with Vanity Fair her doubts about returning to the MCU, saying, “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 the completeness of her character's arc, noting, “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 reprised her role as Natasha Romanoff in the prequel film "Black Widow" in 2021, which she also executive produced.