For over a decade, Scarlett Johansson’s Black Widow was a mainstay in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU). But after Avengers: Endgame, she officially hung up her shield, leaving a void for the next generation of heroes to fill.
Scarlett Johansson as Black Widow in a still from Avengers: Endgame

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 movie Thunderbolts. But the actress is also feeling bittersweet about moving forward without Johansson.

Florence Pugh Saddened by Scarlett Johansson’s Marvel Departure After Black Widow

Natasha Romanoff and Yelena Belova in a still from Black Widow

Florence Pugh‘s made her debut in the MCU alongside Scarlett Johansson in Black Widow (2021). The film explored Natasha Romanoff’s past and introduced her estranged sister, Yelena Belova. Director Cate Shortland specifically 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.

In an interview with the Happy Sad Confused podcast hosted by Josh Horowitz, the Dune: Part Two star shared how thrilled she is about the upcoming Thunderbolts project. 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

Florence Pugh as Yelena Belova in a still from Black Widow
In the comics, Yelena Belova has succeeded Natasha as Black Widow after her death. Even in the movie Black 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.