In the Marvel films, the relationship between the characters Hawkeye and Black Widow is quite complex. So how exactly is it defined? Let’s take a closer look below!
1. The Relationship Between Hawkeye and Black Widow in the MCU Is Not Just Platonic
Hawkeye and Black Widow share a very close relationship. In fact, during their time on Vormir in the film Avengers: Endgame, a life-or-death situation arose where they were at odds with each other over the “sacrifice of oneself.”
Moreover, to obtain the Soul Stone, one must lose what they love most. Therefore, the struggle to sacrifice oneself to let the other live truly demonstrates the deep care Clint and Natasha have for each other. This care is so profound that if one were to sacrifice themselves on Vormir, it would be seen as a worthy exchange for the Soul Stone.
It’s worth noting that at this time, Clint Barton was married to Laura Barton. In the film Age of Ultron, Natasha also had a good relationship with Laura. She resembled a sister figure to Clint’s children.
With such a dynamic, the relationship between Clint and Natasha resembles a very intimate friendship rather than romantic love.
2. Clint and Natasha Have a Long-Lasting Relationship
Natasha had already established her reputation before working with SHIELD, where she became a key target of the organization. This role allowed Clint to get to know Natasha, and he made a different decision regarding her.
Clint explained to Kate Bishop in the Hawkeye series that he had a close bond with Nat. However, later on, he couldn’t let go of her. He felt that Natasha only wanted to escape from what she was doing, and it turned out that Clint was right.
Clint later helped Natasha confront the Red Room — the organization behind Black Widow. Clint and Nat even participated in a mission to confront Dreykov — the leader of the Red Room, in Budapest.
After Dreykov was presumed dead (as revealed in the film Black Widow, he and his daughter survived an assassination attempt in Budapest), Natasha officially joined SHIELD, where she continued to work with Clint.
This long-lasting relationship is what makes their friendship truly special. Clint and Nat became so close that when Yelena confronted Clint in episode 6 of Hawkeye, he even remembered Natasha’s secret whistle meant for Yelena. This whistle allowed Clint to communicate with Yelena and share how Natasha had once talked to him about her sister.
3. Due to Their Close Relationship, Natasha’s Death Still Affects Clint Even in the Hawkeye Series
In the Hawkeye series, there are moments where Natasha’s absence still profoundly affects Clint.
In episode 6 of Hawkeye, when Yelena reveals her deep affection for Natasha, Clint also feels sorrow, realizing that he shares the same sentiment. Natasha’s death has a significant impact on both of them.
