Avengers star Scarlett Johansson is allegedly in discussions to star alongside Robert Pattinson in The Batman: Part II.

The actress, famed for her portrayal of Black Widow in the Marvel Cinematic Universe and her recent appearance in the latest Jurassic World instalment, is reportedly in “final negotiations” to join Matt Reeves’ upcoming sequel, according to Deadline.

Whilst details of her prospective character remain shrouded in secrecy, industry sources hint that Johansson’s role may initially present as a romantic partner before unveiling her true identity as the film’s antagonist.

Comic book enthusiasts wasted little time in crafting their own theories, with one particularly compelling speculation gaining significant traction amongst fans.

Though the star would seemingly suit the iconic DC villain Poison Ivy, devotees are convinced the reported character description aligns more closely with a lesser-known foe; the Phantasm, reports the Mirror.

Andrea Beaumont made her debut in the 1993 animated feature Batman: Mask of the Phantasm, introduced as Bruce Wayne’s former flame who transforms into a masked avenger seeking vengeance against the Joker.

Whilst the character has subsequently appeared across various Batman properties, including comic books and gaming titles, she has never been brought to the big screen in live-action format.

Following the emergence of these reports, enthusiasts flocked to social media platforms to voice their speculation. One X user speculated: “With Matt Reeves saying the villain in The Batman 2 connects to Bruce Wayne’s past in a way [that’s] never been done in live-action, and how Andrea Beaumont is listed as one of the characters Scarlett Johansson might be playing….sounds like the villain might actually be the Phantasm.

“….what if the Phantasm is actually the villain in The Batman 2 and part of Bruce’s story is him trying to guide her away from the vengeful path she’s on? That’d totally fit Robert Pattinson’s arc and fit in with Andrea Beaumont as a character.”

Another fan theorised: “If Scarlett Johansson ends up being in The Batman part 2 she’d make an amazing Phantasm aka Andrea Beaumont.”

The speculation extended to Reddit, where one user observed: “You don’t get Scarlett Johansson for a bit part role. She’s either doing Phantasm or Ivy, and with how grounded this universe is my money’s on Phantasm.”

A further comment noted: “Jeff Sneider has said the role will begin as a love interest then turn villain.

“It’s gotta be Phantasm, she’s playing Andrea Beaumont.”

The eagerly awaited sequel is currently scheduled for release on 1st October 2027, with production expected to commence in spring 2026.