Scarlett Johansson in ‘Final Negotiations’ for Robert Pattinson’s ‘The Batman Part II,’ Role Remains a Mystery
Hollywood Heavyweight Scarlett Johansson Eyes Key Role in DC Sequel, Production Slated for 2026
Los Angeles, CA – Scarlett Johansson, an acclaimed actress renowned for her extensive career in blockbuster franchises and award-winning dramas, is reportedly in advanced discussions to join the highly anticipated cast of The Batman Part II. Sources confirm to PEOPLE that the star of Jurassic World Rebirth is in “final negotiations” to appear alongside Robert Pattinson, 39, who is set to reprise his role as the Caped Crusader. The specifics of Johansson’s character, however, remain a closely guarded secret.
The Batman Part II is poised to continue the grim and grounded narrative established in director Matt Reeves’ critically acclaimed 2022 film. The sequel will pick up after the events of the first installment, which earned praise for its dark tone and Pattinson’s brooding portrayal of Bruce Wayne. Reeves, 59, will return to co-write the screenplay with Mattson Tomlin, further shaping this distinct universe that operates independently of the broader DC Studios’ slate, including James Gunn’s upcoming Superman.
Johansson brings a wealth of experience in the comic book genre, having famously embodied Natasha Romanoff, also known as Black Widow, across 11 years in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Her journey as the fan-favorite character began with 2010’s Iron Man 2 and concluded with her standalone film Black Widow in 2021, where she also served as an executive producer. This significant background makes her a compelling addition to the DC cinematic landscape.
While Johansson’s potential involvement marks a major casting development, it has also been reported by Variety that Zoë Kravitz, who captivated audiences as Selina Kyle/Catwoman in the 2022 film, is not expected to return for the sequel. However, other familiar faces are anticipated to be part of Gotham City’s continued saga, including Andy Serkis as the loyal butler Alfred Pennyworth and Colin Farrell, 49, as the menacing Oswald Cobb/The Penguin. Farrell notably reprised his role in the successful HBO Max spin-off series, The Penguin.
The road to The Batman Part II has seen a measured pace, with the film having been in development since the first movie’s theatrical release. Warner Bros. announced in August that principal photography is slated to commence in spring 2026. The film is currently scheduled to hit theaters on October 1, 2027, marking a significant five-year gap since the original The Batman premiered.
Beyond her potential venture into Gotham, Johansson’s recent cinematic endeavors include a starring role in this summer’s blockbuster hit Jurassic World Rebirth and a supporting turn in The Phoenician Scheme. She also made her directorial debut with Eleanor the Great, featuring June Squibb. Her upcoming projects include Ray Gunn and Paper Tiger. Furthermore, Deadline reported in November that Johansson is set to star in a new take on The Exorcist from filmmaker Mike Flanagan, a project situated within the existing Exorcist universe and produced by Blumhouse-Atomic Monster, Morgan Creek Entertainment, and Flanagan himself.