How do you become the highest-grossing actor in history? For Scarlett Johansson, the answer is 17 blockbuster hits and counting.
She now holds the crown as the highest-grossing actor of all time, with her films raking in a jaw-dropping $14.8 billion globally. From superhero ensembles to indie experiments and even a talking porcupine, Johansson has mastered the art of versatility—and profitability.
And thanks to her latest fictional mega-hit, Jurassic World Rebirth, she’s officially unseated longtime box office kings like Samuel L. Jackson and Robert Downey Jr.
So, how did she get here? Let’s break down the 17 movies that made Scarlett Johansson the box office queen.
The Avengers (2012) – $1.52 billion
As Natasha Romanoff a.k.a. Black Widow, Johansson was a key piece of the original Avengers lineup. The film was Marvel’s first billion-dollar ensemble, cementing her as a global action star. She shared the screen with Marvel’s biggest names and brought balance to the testosterone-heavy cast with nuance and deadpan wit.
Avengers: Age of Ultron (2015) – $1.403 billion
Scarlett returned as Black Widow with more screen time, deeper backstory, and a bit of romantic tension. Despite mixed reviews, it raked in massive numbers. Her character’s dark past and connection with Bruce Banner gave the film emotional weight.
Avengers: Infinity War (2018) – $2.05 billion
The stakes were higher, and so was the body count. Johansson led the ground team in Wakanda and held her own in this massive cinematic crossover. Even in a film packed with heroes, she held her ground with sharp delivery and gravitas.
Avengers: Endgame (2019) – $2.79 billion
This emotional epic gave Natasha a heroic sendoff. Johansson’s sacrifice scene became one of the most talked-about moments in Marvel history. It was a farewell that reminded everyone how central she was to the MCU’s heart.
Captain America: Civil War (2016) – $1.15 billion
Though technically a Cap movie, Civil War felt like Avengers 2.5. Black Widow had a central role in the ideological clash between Tony and Steve. Her divided loyalty added real tension and depth to the film’s core conflict.
Iron Man 2 (2010) – $623.9 million
Johansson made her Marvel debut here as the mysterious Natalie Rushman before revealing her true identity. The role set the stage for her decade-long MCU run. She wowed audiences with that hallway fight and left people wanting more.
Lucy (2014) – $458.9 million
In this sci-fi thriller, Scarlett plays a woman who gains superhuman abilities after a drug leak in her system. A surprise hit that proved she could lead a blockbuster solo. Luc Besson’s slick direction and Scarlett’s intensity helped make it a sleeper success.
Black Widow (2021) – $379 million
Her long-overdue standalone film dropped during the pandemic but still pulled impressive numbers. It explored Natasha’s origins and gave her character closure. The film also introduced Florence Pugh’s Yelena, hinting at a legacy beyond Johansson.
Sing 2 (2021, voice role) – $413 million
She voiced Ash, a punk-rock porcupine with pipes. While animated, her role was pivotal to the storyline and showcased her vocal range. It became a hit with families and proved she could dominate even in animated form.
He’s Just Not That Into You (2009) – $178.9 million
Scarlett played the alluring yoga instructor involved in a love triangle. A surprising rom-com box office hit during the pre-MCU phase of her career. Her performance stood out among a stacked ensemble cast.
Ghost in the Shell (2017) – $169.8 million
Despite backlash over casting, Johansson led this adaptation of the iconic anime as Major. While not a domestic smash, it performed decently overseas. Her cybernetic performance was visually striking if narratively polarizing.
The Prestige (2006) – $109.1 million
Directed by Christopher Nolan, she played Olivia, caught between dueling magicians. A period drama with brainy twists that grew into a cult hit. Her role was smaller but integral to the unraveling rivalry.
Vicky Cristina Barcelona (2008) – $96.4 million
A Woody Allen romantic dramedy where Scarlett plays Cristina, tangled in an artsy Spanish love triangle. Critics and indie fans loved it. It helped solidify her indie credibility during her post-teen actress transition.
Don Jon (2013) – $39.4 million
She starred opposite Joseph Gordon-Levitt as a demanding girlfriend addicted to rom-com ideals. A satire on love and media with a solid return. Johansson’s portrayal nailed the performative side of modern romance.
Scoop (2006) – $39.2 million
A lesser-known Woody Allen comedy where she plays a student journalist chasing a murder scoop in London. Quirky and light, it still made a mark. Her chemistry with Hugh Jackman added sparkle to the oddball mystery.
Chef (2014) – $48.4 million
As the hostess Molly, she brought cool charm to Jon Favreau’s indie hit. The food truck road movie gained cult status and decent earnings. Her scenes oozed charisma and helped the film gain mainstream traction.
The Spirit (2008) – $39.16 million
In this graphic novel adaptation, Scarlett played the villain’s seductive sidekick. The film flopped critically, but her performance stood out. She leaned into camp with style, even if the film didn’t land.
Black Dahlia (2006) – $22.5 million
A noir crime drama based on the infamous murder case. Johansson played Kay, entangled in a web of mystery and corruption. Her old-Hollywood look suited the tragic tone of the film.
Girl with a Pearl Earring (2003) – $31.7 million
An early prestige role, she played Griet, the maid who inspired Vermeer’s famous painting. It earned her Golden Globe and BAFTA nominations. A quiet, restrained performance that hinted at the star she’d become.
The Perfect Score (2004) – $10.9 million
A teen heist comedy where she helps steal SAT answers. One of her earliest ensemble leads—and a time capsule of early 2000s cinema. She added an edge to an otherwise cheesy high school flick.
Under the Skin (2014) – $5.84 million
A sci-fi indie where she plays an alien seductress preying on Scottish men. It barely made money but became a critical darling. The performance was haunting, wordless, and unforgettable.
A Good Woman (2004) – $6.88 million
Scarlett took on Oscar Wilde in this adaptation, playing Meg Windermere, navigating scandal and secrets in 1930s Europe. The period drama had mixed reviews but showcased her poise and depth.
A Love Song for Bobby Long (2004) – $2.04 million
Johansson earned critical praise as Pursy, a young woman reconnecting with her late mother’s past. Quiet and emotional, if not commercially successful. It was a reminder of her early dramatic chops.
Closing Credits on a Record-Breaking Career (So Far)
Scarlett Johansson’s filmography is proof that box office royalty isn’t built on franchises alone. From billion-dollar Marvel spectacles to moody indie films and unexpected animated hits, she’s done it all.
Jurassic World Rebirth may be fictional, but Scarlett’s reign as the highest-grossing actor of all time? That’s very real. And if her past projects are any clue, she’s not slowing down anytime soon.
