While excitement for MCU’s Spider-Man 4 remains high, a recent rumor has Marvel fans worried about Peter Parker’s fate. Michelle Jones (MJ), the only girl left in Peter’s memories, is said to be introducing a new boyfriend in the upcoming film.
Tom Holland’s Spider-Man continues to captivate audiences, especially as fans eagerly await the fourth solo installment following the emotional ending of No Way Home. However, the latest leaks about MJ’s (Zendaya) storyline seem poised to deliver a harsh blow to the young superhero.
Rumor of a ‘third wheel’ leaves Peter Parker empty-handed
Since her debut, MJ has been an essential part of Peter Parker’s growth. From quirky classmates to one of MCU’s most beloved couples, their relationship has been a fan favorite. Yet, according to insider information about the new film titled Spider-Man: Brand New Day, MJ will no longer wait for Peter and will be seen with another guy.
Earlier this year, rumors spread that Marvel Studios is actively searching for a male actor resembling Harris Dickinson, star of The Iron Claw and Babygirl. Multiple sources claim this mysterious role is MJ’s new love interest. Although no official cast list currently includes a matching name, this has already stirred anxiety among fans of the Spider-Man and MJ pairing.
The cruel logic of Doctor Strange’s spell: heartbreaking but plausible
MJ having a new boyfriend may be shocking but makes perfect sense story-wise. After the events of Spider-Man: No Way Home, Doctor Strange’s memory wipe spell erased Peter Parker from everyone’s minds, including MJ and Ned.
Now, to MJ, Peter is just a stranger she happened to meet at a café. Without memories of their time together or romantic moments, MJ has every right to start a new relationship. On forums like Reddit and Twitter, Marvel fans express deep sympathy for Peter: “Lost Aunt May, lost identity, lost best friend, and now watching his love with someone else. Marvel is truly ruthless to our Spider-Man!”
Harry Osborn or a brand-new character?
Online communities are buzzing with theories about the identity of MJ’s new partner. In the original comics, Mary Jane once dated Harry Osborn, Peter’s best friend. This often sparked tension between Peter and the Osborn family, leading to later tragedies.
However, a major hurdle is the licensing issue between Sony and Marvel. The Osborn family seems absent from the MCU (which is why MJ was renamed Michelle Jones instead of Mary Jane Watson). Some fans speculate Ned Leeds might take Harry’s role, while others hope Sony and Marvel have reached a new deal to bring the Osborns back to the screen.
It’s also possible this new character is entirely original, designed to heighten Peter’s loneliness and force him to grow more independent as a hero.
Spider-Man: Brand New Day is scheduled for release on July 31, 2026, marking a key milestone in MCU’s Phase 6.