Scarlett Johansson Slams Oscars for Ignoring Avengers: Endgame

Actress Scarlett Johansson, known for her compelling performances, has garnered two Academy Award nominations throughout her career. Yet, she remains puzzled by the Academy's response to Avengers: Endgame, where she portrayed the iconic Black Widow. Despite the film's monumental success and critical acclaim, it only received a single nomination for visual effects at the Oscars.

In a candid conversation 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, a 2019 blockbuster from the Marvel Cinematic Universe, defied expectations by weaving together multiple storylines into a cohesive and emotionally resonant narrative.

While Avengers: Endgame is widely regarded as one of the finest entries in the MCU, the Academy has historically been reluctant to honor superhero films in major categories such as acting and directing. The only Marvel film to break this trend so far is 2018's Black Panther. Johansson's portrayal of Natasha Romanoff, from her debut in 2010's Iron Man 2 to her poignant sacrifice in Endgame, was nothing short of award-worthy.

Despite her affection for the character and the MCU family, Johansson hinted at a closure to her journey as Black Widow. In the same Vanity Fair interview, 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 the importance of respecting the completeness of Natasha's story, 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 emotional farewell in Endgame, Johansson reprised her role one last time in the 2021 prequel film Black Widow, which she also executive produced. This film allowed fans to delve deeper into Natasha Romanoff's backstory, providing a fitting tribute to the beloved character.