It seems that the Marvel Cinematic Universe isn’t quite done with two of its most iconic heroes. If the latest buzz is anything to go by, Disney may be considering a dramatic strategy to reinvigorate the MCU by bringing back Robert Downey Jr. and Scarlett Johansson.
A recent acknowledgment from Disney’s Bob Iger highlighted concerns of the Marvel TV realm potentially overshadowing the cinematic landscape, causing a “diluted focus and attention.” In light of this, Variety‘s insiders have hinted at Marvel’s intent to bring back two fan-favorite heroes.
A new report is hinting at a potential reunion of the original Avengers squad for a forthcoming movie, which might witness the comeback of Robert Downey Jr. as Tony Stark/Iron Man and Scarlett Johansson as Natasha Romanoff/Black Widow. Fans will recall that both of these characters died in 2019’s Avengers: Endgame.
Why Robert Downey Jr. and Scarlett Johansson’s potential Marvel return is tricky
Anyone familiar with comic books knows that death isn’t always the final curtain. Thanks to plot devices like the Multiverse, characters have a history of making unexpected returns, no matter how definitive their exits seem. However, such a move is more than just a storytelling decision. It’s worth noting that Robert Downey Jr.’s paycheck for Iron Man 3 was reportedly in the ballpark of $25 million, so bringing back these A-listers won’t be a light affair on Marvel’s coffers.
Secret Wars is a crossover event that will bring together characters from all across the Marvel multiverse, so Iron Man and Black Widow’s experience and leadership will be invaluable to the Avengers. Michael Waldron is set to write the upcoming Marvel Studios film Avengers: Secret Wars, but a director has yet to be announced.
