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After stealing hearts in Netflix’s charming series Heartstopper, Joe Locke is stepping into the Marvel Universe with Agatha All Along. Before teaming up with Kathryn Hahn in this wicked Marvel venture, Locke was already a fan of the franchise, and he has some unexpected opinions on who he thinks is the best Avenger.
In a recent interview with Gay Times to discuss the upcoming third season of Heartstopper, Locke took a moment to share his thoughts on his experience with Marvel. He even recounted an interesting dinner with Marvel Studios president Kevin Feige. When asked who his favorite Marvel hero is, Locke confidently declared that it’s Scarlett Johansson’s Black Widow. Feige’s reaction was one of surprise, as he noted that not many people choose Black Widow, to which Locke responded, “People are wrong.”
Why Black Widow?
Locke’s choice is indeed a surprising one, especially since Black Widow doesn’t have superpowers like her fellow Avengers, who include gods, super-soldiers, and tech geniuses. However, it’s precisely this human aspect that makes Natasha Romanoff stand out. Unlike her superpowered teammates, Black Widow relies on her intelligence, skill, and determination, making her relatable to audiences in a world filled with fantastical beings.
Beyond her relatability, Black Widow’s character arc is one of the most compelling in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU). She evolves from a cold-blooded assassin into a selfless hero who seeks redemption for her past. Aware of her dark history, she fights hard to make a positive impact in a flawed world.
Locke also emphasizes the importance of Black Widow as a female superhero in a predominantly male franchise. She has paved the way for greater diversity and representation in superhero films. Long before characters like Brie Larson’s Captain Marvel or Elizabeth Olsen’s Scarlet Witch, Johansson was the only female superhero in the MCU, carrying the responsibility of representing women in the genre. Her strength, intelligence, and independence have made her a role model for many fans, including Locke.
Despite her significant contributions to the MCU, Black Widow has often been overlooked. The long wait for her solo movie and the mixed reviews it received upon release highlight this issue. However, it’s encouraging to see her gaining more recognition over time. By championing Black Widow, Locke underscores the importance of looking beyond flashy superpowers to appreciate human resilience, skill, and personal growth.