Before Scarlett Johansson made her way into the MCU, Emily Blunt was set to take her place in one of the universe's most iconic spy roles.

Over the years, Emily Blunt has been known for her roles in films like A Quiet Place, The Devil Wears Prada, Fall Guy, Pain Hustlers, and more. However, back in 2009, the actress had a chance to join the MCU in a role she almost played but lost to another Hollywood star.

Although Blunt would have loved to join the superhero-verse as Black Widow, it was a dream that never ended up being realized. After all, due to scheduling conflicts, Scarlett Johansson was eventually given the role.

It might be hard to imagine anyone other than Johansson playing the superspy now. However, years after the miss, Blunt ended up revealing why she had to pass on the iconic role.

Why Emily Blunt turned down Scarlett Johansson’s iconic role

Emily Blunt was initially set to appear as Black Widow in 2010’s Iron Man 2, the movie that introduced the character to the MCU. However, despite being eager to take on the role and even being cast, she was forced to give it up for another project.

In an interview with Howard Stern, the 41-year-old decided to set the record straight on why she passed on the role that eventually went to Scarlett Johansson.