Scarlett Johansson Pursued The Batman 2 After Marvel Star Declined
Scarlett Johansson’s rumoured casting in The Batman 2 has sparked a frenzy, but she wasn’t the first choice for the mysterious role. Find out who turned it down and why Johansson was so eager to join.
Speculation has been rife following reports that Scarlett Johansson is set to appear in the much-anticipated sequel to The Batman. Yet, it appears the acclaimed actress was not initially at the top of the list for the enigmatic part, which is thought to be a possible romantic interest for Bruce Wayne. According to industry chatter, Emma Stone was first approached for the role, particularly as Zoë Kravitz is not expected to reprise her part in the follow-up.
Stone, known for her work in The Amazing Spider-Man, is said to have declined the offer. This decision reportedly mirrors her earlier refusal to join Marvel’s The Fantastic Four: First Steps, with both choices apparently linked to disagreements over salary expectations.
Johansson’s Determination to Join the Cast
After Stone’s departure from negotiations, Johansson is believed to have instructed her representatives to actively seek out a place for her in director Matt Reeves’ next chapter, even if it meant accepting a reduced fee. The suggestion is that Johansson, despite her status as a two-time Oscar nominee, was willing to compromise on her usual rate to secure the opportunity.
Rumours have circulated that Johansson’s agreement may involve a lower upfront payment, offset by a share of the film’s eventual profits.
As a two-time Oscar nominee, Johansson doesn’t exactly come cheap, but I’ve heard whispers that she may have taken a lower salary upfront for The Batman Part II in exchange for points on the backend, ultimately betting on the success of the sequel.
Betting on the Sequel’s Success
With production scheduled to begin next year, Johansson’s decision to accept a potentially smaller initial sum could prove shrewd, given the high expectations for the sequel’s box office performance. Her willingness to take this approach is seen as a sign of confidence in Matt Reeves’ vision for the franchise.
Johansson’s professional commitments remain extensive, as she is also set to lead the forthcoming reboot of The Exorcist. Her reported flexibility on pay for The Batman 2 suggests a strong belief in the project’s prospects and her role within it.
Anticipation Builds for DC Debut
As anticipation grows for further casting news and production updates, fans are left to wonder how Johansson’s involvement might shape the next instalment. The Batman 2 is currently scheduled for release on 1 October 2027.
Are you looking forward to seeing Johansson take on a new challenge in the DC universe? Let us know your thoughts below.