Follow us on Google News
Get the latest updates directly in your Google News feed
For over a decade, Scarlett Johansson’s Black Widow was a mainstay in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU). But afterAvengers: Endgame, she officially hung up her shield, leaving a void for the next generation of heroes to fill.
Now, Florence Pugh is stepping in to take on the role of Yelena Belova. She’s excited about the chance to lead a new team in the upcoming movieThunderbolts. But the actress is also feeling bittersweet about moving forward without Johansson.
Florence Pugh Saddened by Scarlett Johansson’s Marvel Departure AfterBlack Widow
Florence Pugh‘s made her debut in the MCU alongsideScarlett JohanssoninBlack Widow(2021). The film explored Natasha Romanoff’s past and introduced her estranged sister, Yelena Belova. DirectorCate Shortlandspecifically chose Pugh for the role, recognizing that she could keep up with Johansson’s energy on screen.
While the movie established a strong bond between the two characters, Johansson’s departure from the MCU meant Pugh wouldn’t get the chance to develop that sisterhood on screen any further.
“I’ve requested that several times”: Anthony Mackie Was Desperate to Have an Affair With Scarlett Johansson’s Black Widow in the MCU
In an interview with theHappy Sad Confusedpodcast hosted by Josh Horowitz, theDune: Part Twostar shared how thrilled she is about the upcomingThunderboltsproject. The 28-year-old’s enthusiasm is evident, but the interview also revealed a tinge of sadness. She went on to say:
“I know. It’s so weird, because I did a movie with her, and her character obviously had already passed. And so it’s like false hope, really. Yeah, I just got pulled in and then it was like, ‘Nope, you’re never gonna do that again.’”
Even though Pugh feels a bit sad about Scarjo’s absence, her overall outlook is positive. She has consistently expressed admiration for the MCU, praising the“beauty in the massive epic storylines.”
From Black Widow’s Sister to Leading Her Own Team – Yelena Belova’s MCU Journey
In the comics, Yelena Belova has succeeded Natasha as Black Widow after her death. Even in the movieBlack Widow, Yelena was introduced as another Black Widow, a skilled assassin trained in the same Red Room program as Natasha. So, it’s definite that Yelena would be Natasha’s successor in the MCU.
Looking ahead, Pugh seems energized about the future of her character.“I think I’m just so grateful to be a part of that family,”she said in the podcast. Her enthusiasm is a clear sign that the MCU is in good hands. While fans may miss Johansson, Pugh’s talent and dedication promise a bright future for the franchise.
Scarlett Johansson Gets an Offer From $6 Billion Worth Movie Franchise Years After Quitting MCU as Black Widow
Catch Florence Pugh as Yelena Belova inThunderbolts, hitting theaters on August 16, 2025.
Shreya Jha
Articles Published :1042
Meet Shreya, FandomWire’s go-to Pop-Culture Writer. She holds a master’s degree in Journalism and a pop culture obsession that rivals even the most die-hard ‘Star Wars’ and Marvel fans.Her articles have been published in Animated Times, Creator Mail, and The Luxxe Mag. When Shreya’s not busy dishing out hot takes, she is lost in the world of rom-coms.
More from Shreya Jha
Jimmy Carter’s Net Worth in 2025: How Did He Make His Fortune?
What We Know About Barry Jenkins and Lulu Wang’s Relationship
Richest Sharks of Shark Tank, Ranked by Net Worth
Recommended
You Can Finally Watch Brad Pitt’s ‘F1’ Blockbuster at Home: Digital Release Date Revealed - Report
NYT Pips Solution for August 24, 2025
‘Game of Thrones’ Cast Ranked by Net Worth: Who’s the Richest GOT Actor?
Every Makoto Shinkai Main Character Ranked From Worst to Best
‘Lord of Mysteries’ and ‘To Be Hero X’ Are Giving ‘One Piece’ a Massive Reality Check
10 Actors You Didn’t Know Were in Smallville: From Dave Bautista to Cobie Smulders
Florence PughScarlett Johansson
