Scarlett Johansson was reviewing scripts for her packed 2026 schedule when Matt Reeves called with an unexpected proposition. Four years after departing the Marvel Cinematic Universe, the Black Widow star is reportedly in final negotiations to join DC’s Gotham City for “The Batman Part II.”
Deal Details
Scarlett Johansson is in advanced talks to join Robert Pattinson in Matt Reeves’ highly anticipated sequel, according to multiple industry sources including Deadline and Variety. While DC Studios has not officially commented, insiders confirm negotiations have reached their final stages, with the actress expected to sign on after completing work on Mike Flanagan’s “The Exorcist” reboot for Blumhouse.
The move marks a significant franchise shift for Johansson, who spent a decade portraying Natasha Romanoff across eight MCU films from “Iron Man 2″ (2010) through “Black Widow” (2021). Her potential DC casting represents one of the most high-profile Marvel-to-DC transitions in recent memory, following her well-publicized legal dispute with Disney over streaming revenue.
Johansson’s role remains tightly guarded, with Reeves and the production team maintaining strict secrecy about plot details. However, the timing is notable—Zoë Kravitz will not reprise her role as Selina Kyle/Catwoman in the sequel, creating speculation that Johansson might portray a new love interest for Bruce Wayne or potentially a significant antagonist.
Production Timeline
The Batman Part II begins filming in spring 2026, with an October 1, 2027 theatrical release date. The compressed production schedule required Johansson’s team at CAA to carefully navigate her commitments, particularly balancing the Flanagan film with the Batman sequel. Sources indicate her schedule has been resolved, allowing her to complete both projects sequentially.
Reeves co-wrote the screenplay with Mattson Tomlin, and insiders who’ve read the script describe it as darker and more gothic than the 2022 original, which earned $772.3 million globally. The first film’s success gives Reeves creative freedom to expand Gotham’s mythology while introducing new characters that could anchor future installments.
Character Speculation
While official confirmation remains pending, industry speculation suggests several possible roles for Scarlett Johansson. The most frequently mentioned options include Andrea Beaumont (The Phantasm), Talia al Ghul, Poison Ivy, or even Barbara Gordon. Each character offers distinct dramatic possibilities that would utilize Johansson’s action credentials and dramatic range.
The Andrea Beaumont theory holds particular weight among fans, as the character represents Bruce Wayne’s most significant romantic relationship in Batman mythology. Her tragic story arc—transforming from Bruce’s lover into the vigilante Phantasm—would provide emotional depth matching Reeves’ character-driven approach.
Alternatively, casting Johansson as an antagonist like Poison Ivy or Talia al Ghul would create formidable opposition for Pattinson’s Batman while establishing new franchise villains. Both characters offer complex motivations beyond simple villainy, aligning with Reeves’ nuanced characterization throughout the first film.
Franchise Context
The Batman Part II exists within DC’s Elseworlds framework, operating separately from James Gunn and Peter Safran’s main DCU continuity. This distinction allows Reeves complete creative freedom without requiring interconnection to Gunn’s “Superman” (2025) or other DCU projects. The separation also means multiple interpretations of characters can coexist across different DC franchises.
The sequel follows up on both the first film and HBO Max’s “The Penguin” series, which concluded in November 2024 to critical acclaim. Colin Farrell returns as Oswald Cobb, alongside confirmed cast members Jeffrey Wright (Commissioner Gordon) and Andy Serkis (Alfred Pennyworth).
Johansson’s addition elevates the sequel’s profile significantly. Beyond “Black Widow,” she recently starred in “Jurassic World: Rebirth” (which grossed $868 million globally) and made her directorial debut with “Eleanor the Great” at Cannes. Her involvement signals Warner Bros.’ commitment to A-list talent for Reeves’ Batman saga.
Whether Johansson ultimately signs remains unconfirmed until official announcements emerge. But her reported interest and advanced negotiations suggest Scarlett Johansson could soon trade Marvel’s red for Gotham’s shadows, marking one of 2026’s most significant casting developments.