Sadie Sink's Spider-Man: Brand New Day Role is Still a Big Mystery

First look photos of Stranger Things star Sadie Sink on the set of Spider-Man: Brand New Day have dropped, igniting a whirlwind of fan theories about her top-secret character alongside Tom Holland and a growing ensemble.

TL;DR - What You Need to Know Right Now

Sadie Sink has been spotted filming Spider-Man: Brand New Day, fueling massive speculation about her mystery role, with theories ranging from a new Mary Jane to Jean Grey or even a Punisher sidekick.
Tom Holland is back in his Spidey suit, swinging into action after a brief pause due to a mild concussion, with filming continuing in the UK.
Set leaks suggest a dramatic scenario for Mark Ruffalo's Hulk, possibly involving a return to his "Savage Hulk" persona and a potential confrontation with Spider-Man and Punisher.
The movie boasts a massive ensemble, including Jon Bernthal's Punisher, Michael Mando's Scorpion, and Marvin Jones III's Tombstone, setting the stage for a street-level, yet epic, MCU adventure.

Sadie Sink's Grand Entrance into the Spider-Verse and the MCU

Alright, Spidey-fans, buckle up! We've finally got our first peek at Sadie Sink on the set of the upcoming Spider-Man: Brand New Day, and it's sent the internet into an absolute tailspin. The Stranger Things breakout star is officially joining the MCU, and her role is currently one of Marvel's best-kept secrets. And trust us, everyone has an opinion on who she's playing.

Initial photos showed Sink bundled up in a huge padded coat with a hood, making it tough to glean any specific character details. However, eagle-eyed fans couldn't miss a flush of her signature red hair peeking out. Later photos offered a bit more: Sink was seen in camo combat trousers and military-style boots, as well as a black and yellow jacket with blue jeans. She was also captured chatting with director Destin Daniel Cretton, confirming her active involvement.

Unpacking the Myriad Fan Theories Surrounding Sadie Sink's Character

Given Sink's natural red hair, the most obvious theories immediately jumped to iconic redheads in the Spider-Man universe. Could she be a "real" Mary Jane Watson? It's a popular thought, especially considering Zendaya already plays MJ, leading some to wonder if Sink might be an alternate universe version. Fans even joked about her playing "Caterpillar Girl" because of her bundled-up look, which just goes to show how eager everyone is for clues!

But the theories don't stop there. Her combat gear in some photos has led many to speculate she could be Rachel Cole-Alves, a redheaded comic book ally of The Punisher (who, spoiler alert, is also in this movie!). Others have tossed around the idea of her portraying Firestar, another brief Spidey ally, or Carlie Cooper, who's a love interest for Spider-Man in the "Brand New Day" comic storyline itself. And then there's the X-Men connection: some brave souls are even suggesting she could be a new version of Jean Grey, especially with mutant reboots being rumored for the MCU. The idea of her playing Mayday Parker, Spider-Man's daughter from the comics, has also been floated.

Sink herself has been playfully cryptic. When asked about the character rumors back in May 2025, she told Deadline, "I see a lot of rumors too. They've been really cool to read. I love the Marvel Universe. I mean they're awesome rumors." So, for now, the mystery remains, but the speculation is definitely half the fun!

"I see a lot of rumors too. They've been really cool to read. I love the Marvel Universe. I mean they're awesome rumors."

— Sadie Sink on her mystery role in Spider-Man: Brand New Day

Tom Holland's Triumphant Return to Web-Slinging After Injury

Of course, you can't have a Spider-Man movie without Spider-Man himself! Tom Holland is back in action as Peter Parker, and fans were relieved to see him filming intense action sequences, even swinging around on wires. This comes after a brief production pause in September 2025 when Holland suffered a mild concussion from a stunt-related accident. Thankfully, it seems the break was short and precautionary, and our friendly neighborhood hero is back to doing what he does best: protecting the streets of New York (or at least, the London sets standing in for it!).

The return to practical web-swinging, hinted at by set videos, is a treat for fans who appreciate seeing more tangible stunts alongside the incredible CGI that defines MCU films. It shows a commitment to grounding Peter's adventures, a direction Kevin Feige reportedly favored after the multiverse-spanning epic of No Way Home.

An Expanding Ensemble: New and Returning Faces Join the Web-Slinger

Spider-Man: Brand New Day is shaping up to be a true ensemble piece, bringing together a fascinating mix of returning favorites and exciting new additions beyond Sadie Sink. After the massive success of Spider-Man: No Way Home, there were reports of creative clashes between Marvel Studios and Sony Pictures. Sony allegedly wanted another huge multiverse movie, but Marvel's Kevin Feige pushed for a more "street-level" Spider-Man, akin to the vibe of Daredevil. It looks like Feige largely got his wish, as the upcoming film is packing its cast with some grounded, yet powerful, characters.

Confirmed and Rumored Cast Members for Spider-Man: Brand New Day

Tom Holland as Spider-Man / Peter Parker
Zendaya as Michelle Jones (MJ)
Jacob Batalon as Ned Leeds
Jon Bernthal as Frank Castle / The Punisher: This marks Bernthal's official MCU film debut as the beloved (and brutal) vigilante, following his acclaimed Netflix series and upcoming Daredevil: Born Again.
Mark Ruffalo as Bruce Banner / Hulk: His first major appearance since She-Hulk, and his role is sparking serious buzz (more on that in a moment!).
Michael Mando as Scorpion: Finally returning after a tease in Spider-Man: Homecoming almost a decade ago!
Marvin Jones III as Tombstone: He voiced the character in Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse and will bring the live-action villain to life here. (Note: Krondon was also mentioned, but Marvin Jones III is explicitly named for Tombstone in later articles, so we'll go with him.)
J.K. Simmons as J. Jonah Jameson: Expected to make his usual brief, but memorable, appearance.
Liza Colón-Zayas in an undisclosed role
Tramell Tillman in an undisclosed role
Melanie Scrofano in an undisclosed role
Sadie Sink in her mysterious, undisclosed role
Florence Pugh as Yelena (rumored, from Thunderbolts)

This lineup alone promises a thrilling, character-rich narrative, especially with Punisher and Scorpion joining the fray. It truly feels like Peter's world is expanding in a very grounded, yet intense, way.

Hulk's Shocking Role: Is a Savage Rampage Incoming for Bruce Banner?

Perhaps one of the most intriguing and potentially spoiler-heavy leaks surrounds Mark Ruffalo's return as Bruce Banner/Hulk. Set videos and photos have surfaced, showing Bruce Banner in his human form on a stretcher, looking dusty and seemingly after a "Hulk-out," surrounded by FDNY officers. He was reportedly being taken away in an ambulance.

This has sparked widespread speculation that we're about to see the return of the "Savage Hulk" persona, not the Smart Hulk we've become accustomed to since Avengers: Endgame. Previous rumors, including a leaked moodboard from cinematographer Brett Pawlak, hinted at a confrontation between Spider-Man and Hulk, and this ambulance scene seems to confirm a dramatic scenario. What could possibly incapacitate the Green Goliath?

The theory gaining traction is that Hulk goes on a rampage in New York, potentially chasing an armored vehicle. Spider-Man and Punisher then step in to try and stop him, but the uncontrolled rage monster accidentally demolishes a Department of Damage Control prison, leading to a mass inmate escape. This would certainly present Peter Parker with his "biggest MCU challenge yet" and bring the Hulk back to his more ferocious roots, which some fans believe is the best direction for the character ahead of the next Avengers movie.

Plot Rumors and Wider MCU Implications for Brand New Day

While specific plot details are, as usual, under tight wraps, we do have some tantalizing rumors that place Brand New Day squarely in the center of the ongoing Multiverse Saga. The film is rumored to continue Peter Parker's journey after the events of No Way Home, where his identity was erased from the world, including from his friends and girlfriend, MJ. This "clean slate" allows for a fresh, street-level adventure, which was Marvel's preferred direction.

Crucially, Spider-Man: Brand New Day is slated to be the final film released before the arrival of Avengers: Doomsday in December 2026. Internet buzz suggests that Brand New Day will act as a launchpad for the next big Avengers saga, possibly with its post-credit scene finally revealing Robert Downey Jr.'s Doctor Doom after his tease at the end of The Fantastic Four: First Steps. This firmly positions Peter Parker's next solo outing as a pivotal piece of the larger MCU puzzle.

The Creative Minds Behind the Next Spider-Man Blockbuster

Bringing this ambitious project to life is director Destin Daniel Cretton, known for his work on Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings, which certainly gives confidence in the film's action and character development. The script is penned by Chris McKenna and Erik Sommers, who have become veterans of the Holland Spider-Man trilogy, ensuring a consistent voice for Peter Parker's adventures. Comic book legends Steve Ditko and Stan Lee also receive writing credits, acknowledging their foundational work on the character.

Producers Amy Pascal and Kevin Feige are at the helm, continuing their collaborative effort to shepherd Spider-Man's journey within the Marvel Cinematic Universe. With such a strong creative team and an incredibly exciting cast, Spider-Man: Brand New Day is shaping up to be a must-see event.

Your Burning Questions About Spider-Man: Brand New Day Answered!

When is 'Spider-Man: Brand New Day' scheduled to be released?

Spider-Man: Brand New Day is set to hit theaters on July 31, 2026.

Who is directing the new 'Spider-Man' movie?

The film is directed by Destin Daniel Cretton, known for his work on Marvel's Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings.

What is the rumored plot of 'Spider-Man: Brand New Day'?

While the full plot is under wraps, rumors suggest a street-level adventure following Peter Parker after his identity was erased. It's expected to feature a team-up with The Punisher and potentially a rampaging Hulk. It's also rumored to set up events for Avengers: Doomsday.

Will Mark Ruffalo's Hulk be a villain in 'Brand New Day'?

Set leaks indicate a dramatic scenario for Mark Ruffalo's Bruce Banner, possibly involving a return to a less controlled "Savage Hulk" form, which could put him at odds with Spider-Man and The Punisher. While not confirmed as a full villain, he might be a significant threat Peter needs to contend with.

Sources

MovieWeb: "Sadie Sink Spider-Man: Brand New Day First Look Has Fans Assuming She is Playing Caterpillar Girl"
TOI Entertainment Desk: "Sadie Sink's FIRST LOOK revealed in 'Spider-Man: Brand New Day'; actress spotted on set with Tom Holland - PICS"
ComicBookMovie.com: "Spider-Man 4: Tom Holland Back on Set as Sadie Sink Spotted & New Hulk Spoiler Emerges"
The Direct: "Spider-Man 4 Set Video Spoils Return of Major Avengers Hero"
Fiction Horizon: "Sadie Sink Spotted on the Set of ‘Spider-Man: Brand New Day’ for the First Time"
Geo News: "Tom Holland joined by Sadie Sink on ‘Spider-Man’ set for first time after injury"
Zoom TV Digital: "Spider-Man: Brand New Day - Fans Are Confused by Sadie Sink's First Appearance with Tom Holland, Speculating Whether She Portrays Jean Grey or Mary Jane."
IGN: "Spider-Man: Brand New Day Set Photos Reveal Stranger Things Star Sadie Sink, Sparking Fresh Speculation Around Who She's Playing"
ScreenRant: "Spider-Man: Brand New Day Will Finally Bring Tom Holland Back Into The Marvel Cinematic Universe"