MCU to DCU: Scarlett Johansson Eyes Major Role in The Batman Part II

 

In what is arguably the biggest casting shake-up of the decade, multiple industry outlets—including Variety and The Hollywood Reporter—have confirmed that Scarlett Johansson is in final negotiations to join the cast of Matt Reeves’ The Batman Part II.

The move marks a monumental shift for the actress, who defined the Marvel Cinematic Universe’s Black Widow for over a decade. Now, she appears poised to cross the aisle to DC, entering the gritty, rain-slicked streets of Robert Pattinson’s Gotham.

Here is the full breakdown of the breaking news, the confirmed details, and the rampant speculation surrounding her mystery role.

The News: A "Major Lead"

Reports surfacing earlier this week indicate that Johansson is circling a "major lead role" that will see her starring opposite Robert Pattinson. While Warner Bros. has not officially commented, insiders suggest the deal is all but signed, with Johansson reportedly clearing her schedule—dropping out of the live-action Tangled remake and the indie thriller Featherwood—to accommodate the Spring 2026 shoot.

The Catwoman Void: Zoe Kravitz Not Returning

Crucial to this casting news is the simultaneous update regarding Zoë Kravitz. Sources indicate that Kravitz, whose portrayal of Selina Kyle was a highlight of the 2022 film, is not expected to return for the sequel.

Narratively, this aligns with the first film’s conclusion, which saw Selina riding off toward Blüdhaven, leaving Gotham (and Batman) behind. Her absence leaves a significant void for a female lead—one that a star of Johansson’s caliber is clearly intended to fill.

The Theories: Who is She Playing?

While the role is being kept under lock and key (literally, given Reeves' famous security measures), three leading theories have emerged from the "Barside Buzz."

READ MORE: The Joker’s Role in ‘The Batman Part II’: Everything We Know So Far

1. The Favorite: Andrea Beaumont (The Phantasm)

The overwhelming fan theory is that Johansson will play Andrea Beaumont.

• The Lore: Originating from the 1993 animated classic Mask of the Phantasm, Beaumont is Bruce Wayne's former fiancée who returns to Gotham with a deadly secret.

• Why It Fits: She represents the "path not taken" for Bruce—a chance at happiness that is tragically ripped away. Johansson excels at playing complex, emotionally layered characters who can switch from vulnerable socialite to lethal threat. If Reeves is adapting Phantasm, Johansson would likely play both the love interest and the terrifying vigilante executing mobsters.

2. The Femme Fatale: A Grounded Poison Ivy

Insider Jeff Sneider has hinted that while Johansson’s role is a "love interest," it will ultimately be revealed as "villainous in nature." This points toward a grounded reimagining of Poison Ivy (Pamela Isley).

• The Reeves Twist: Forget the supernatural plant control. In this universe, Isley would likely be a botanical biochemist or eco-terrorist using Gotham’s flooded, ruined state to unleash a biological "cleanse." Johansson’s ability to play seductive intelligence (reminiscent of her voice work in Her or her role in Under the Skin) makes her a perfect fit for a cerebral Ivy.

3. The Detective's Match: Silver St. Cloud

If Reeves intends to challenge Bruce Wayne rather than Batman, Silver St. Cloud is the top contender.

• The Role: A wealthy socialite who organizes Gotham's elite events and becomes one of the few people to deduce Batman’s identity simply by observing his behavior.

• Why It Fits: This character would force the reclusive Bruce Wayne (who we saw realizing he needs to be more of a public figure at the end of Part I) into the spotlight. It offers a romantic dynamic that is intellectual rather than physical.

What’s Next?

• Filming: Production is slated to begin in April 2026 at Warner Bros. Studios Leavesden.

• Release Date: The Batman Part II is scheduled to hit theaters on October 1, 2027.

• The Vibe: With Johansson potentially joining a cast that includes Colin Farrell (Penguin) and Barry Keoghan (Joker), Matt Reeves is assembling an ensemble that rivals any comic book movie in history.

As we wait for the official press release, one thing is certain: The war for Gotham's soul just got a lot more interesting.