Marvel is teasing that original MCU Avengers member Black Widow could be on the verge of betraying her superhero squad. The question now is if the company will follow through, or if the hint that Natasha Romanoff could be compromised is a misdirect, obscuring the real turncoat among the Avengers’ ranks.
AIPT released an exclusive preview of New Avengers #6, written by Sam Humphries, with art by Ton Lima. The preview for the issue ends with Clea Strange narrating that the team “cannot trust Natasha anymore.”
Marvel has confirmed there is “a traitor in [the team’s] midst,” but Black Widow would be the most shocking candidate. Which perhaps makes her perfect.
Marvel Hints That Black Widow Could Be About To Betray Her Avengers Roster, But Is A Swerve Incoming?
New Avengers #6, Written By Sam Humphries; Art By Ton Lima; Available November 12, 2025 From Marvel Comics
The synopsis for New Avengers #6 centers around the identity of the “traitor” working against the team from within. So, Marvel fans have known to read the preceding issues closely, looking for clues as to who the secret antagonist could be. Few readers have advanced theories about Black Widow being the pole, but Clea Strange has her suspicions, at least.
The latest incarnation of New Avengers features an eclectic mix of Marvel personalities. Along with Widow and Clea, the team consists of: Laura Kinney, as Wolverine; Bucky Barnes as the Winter Soldier; Namor the Submariner; and Carnage, as part of Marvel’s attempt to rehabilitate the perennial villain into an anti-hero of sorts.
Whoever is the traitor, they are responsible for creating a group called the “Killuminati.” Of course, Namor is Marvel’s first anti-hero, and an occasional villain, one who has history with Marvel’s Illuminati, making him the most obvious pick to betray the team. That is to say, perhaps Namor is too obvious to actually be it.
“New Avengers” Traitor Storyline Is A Great Hook Leading Into The Series’ Next Arc
Marvel Readers, Keep A Close Eye On Black Widow
In the preview for New Avengers #6, Clea narrates that she sensed something off about Natasha, offering a strong hook for the full issue. This could be a swerve in its own right; the narration could be a misdirect, and Clea could turn out to be the traitor. Or, she’s right, and Marvel is making a big move with Black Widow.
The film version of Natasha Romanoff isn’t expected to return for the upcoming Avengers films; with her MCU arc seemingly done, now is the time for Marvel to take a wild swing for the character. A full-on villain arc would certainly qualify. Yet if that turn is coming, it would be surprising to give it away in the preview.
In other words, Marvel has set up an engaging mystery in New Avengers. Solicitations for the next several issues suggest that the answer won’t be forthcoming in New Avengers #6. That means readers should watch OG MCU Avenger Black Widow extra closely as the series continues to unfold toward its big reveal.
New Avengers #6 will be available November 12, 2025 from Marvel Comics.