Spider-Man 4 might turn the table for beloved characters like MJ and Ned Leeds. Despite rumors of Zendaya and Jacob Batalon returning in Tom Holland’s fourth MCU installment, it seems that Marvel Studios is reportedly planning on featuring a new take on the titular character alongside a new supporting cast.
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According to industry scooper Daniel Richtman, the studio is planning on introducing a new lover for Tom Holland’s Peter Parker in Spider-Man 4. Well, not just that, even Jacob Batalon’s supporting role as Ned Leeds might be at risk of change, after Richtman’s rumors surrounding the introduction of a new supporting cast.
Zendaya and Jacob Batalon might no longer appear in Tom Holland’s Spider-Man 4
Ever since Tom Holland took on the titular role of Spider-Man in MCU, and even starred in the standalone movies, fans have always loved the chemistry between him, Zendaya, and Jacob Batalon. Therefore, since Spider-Man: Homecoming, this trio has been the heart of Peter Parker’s journey in the MCU.
However, recent rumors suggest that Spider-Man 4 might take a completely new direction, possibly without Zendaya’s MJ and Jacob Batalon’s Ned Leeds. Although there have been rumors about the actress’ return to the film, industry insider Daniel Richtman reported (via @HollywoodHandle) that Marvel is considering a fresh take on Spider-Man’s story.
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This means Peter Parker might get a new group of friends and even a new love interest. Considering how at the end of Spider-Man: No Way Home, Peter’s friends forgot about him due to Doctor Strange’s spell, this could give Marvel the perfect reason to introduce new characters. If these rumors turn out to be true, it would mark a huge change for the Spider-Man franchise.
Fans seem excited over the possibility of seeing a new supporting cast
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Meanwhile, whenever major changes happen in the MCU, fans always appear on social media with strong opinions. So now, the rumors about a new cast for Spider-Man 4 have similarly sparked discussions online, with people offering mixed reactions. While some fans are thrilled about the idea of fresh faces and new dynamics for Peter Parker, others, however, are not so happy.
While some believe that a new supporting cast could bring exciting surprises and give Tom Holland’s Spider-Man a chance to grow in unexpected ways. Fans of Zendaya’s MJ and Jacob Batalon’s Ned, seem to have bittersweet opinions about the duo leaving the MCU. Because, for many, the friendship between Peter, MJ, and Ned has been a heartwarming part of the series.
Overall, netizens are excited to see what changes might appear in Spider-Man 4. Considering how in the comics, Peter has had many love interests besides MJ, including Gwen Stacy, Felicia Hardy aka Black Cat, and more, fans are hoping that Spider-Man 4 will introduce one of these classic characters. But as of now, there has been no official confirmation about this rumor.
Spider-Man 4 will hit the theatres on 24 July 2026.
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