Mary Jane Watson has stirred up quite a conversation in the comic book community after Marvel Comics revealed her as the new host for the infamous Venom symbiote. This unexpected twist has left some fans of Spider-Man’s love interest feeling uneasy. However, this isn’t the first time MJ has taken up a superhero—or at times, anti-hero—identity in the vast Marvel Universe.
The transformation into Venom represents a significant evolution for Mary Jane, but there have been numerous occasions throughout her history where she has embraced different alter egos. In this article, we’ll delve into the various identities that Mary Jane has donned over the years, including variants from alternate universes and timelines. Some of these may surprise even the most ardent Spider-Man aficionados. Without further ado, here are 10 remarkable Mary Jane alter egos that precede her current role as Venom.
7 Spider-Woman (Earth-2301)
Debuted in New Mangaverse #1 by C.B. Cebulski and Tommy Ohtsuka
In the 2000s, Marvel sought to capitalize on the booming popularity of manga by launching the “Marvel Mangaverse”series, where classic characters were reimagined within a Japanese manga style. Mary Jane steps into the spotlight as Spider-Woman in this alternate universe.
Joining the Spider-clan—a group of ninjas—Mary Jane learns the art of combat with the guidance of Spider-Man. Her look and abilities diverge significantly from the familiar Spider-Women of Earth-616, melding traditional superhero tropes with distinctive manga influences, transforming her into a formidable ally for Spider-Man on the battlefield.
6 Spinneret
Debuted in The Amazing Spider-Man: Renew Your Vows #1 by Gerry Conway and Ryan Stegman
In the alternate reality of Renew Your Vows, the marriage between Spider-Man and Mary Jane remains intact, despite the events of the infamous One More Day storyline. Together, they become a dynamic crime-fighting duo, with MJ taking on the name Spinneret.
Though lacking inherent superpowers, Mary Jane utilizes a test suit that replicates Peter’s abilities, enabling her to fight alongside him. The trio, including their daughter, Annie, takes to the streets, embodying the ultimate superhero family.
5 Black Cat
Debuted in Mary Jane & Black Cat: Beyond #1 by Jed MacKay and Carlos Fabian Villa
While Felicia Hardy is best recognized as the Black Cat, Mary Jane briefly shares this title in Mary Jane & Black Cat: Beyond #1. In this storyline, she teams up with Felicia for a high-stakes heist, showcasing her ability to embody the notorious vigilante persona.
In her role as Black Cat, MJ’s mission involves scaling buildings and creating diversions, allowing Felicia to execute their heist unnoticed. Although her time as this iconic character is brief, it’s a fascinating glimpse into her diverse capabilities as a character.
4 Iron Spider
Debuted in The Amazing Spider-Man #15 by Dan Slott and Giuseppe Camuncoli
Typically associated with Peter Parker, the Iron Spider armor has also been donned by Mary Jane Watson. During a critical battle against the formidable villain Regent, MJ takes the initiative to don the armored suit, showcasing her bravery and adaptability as Iron Spider.
Even without Spider-Man’s powers, the suit provides her with advanced capabilities, including robotic spider legs that enhance her combat effectiveness. This moment highlights Mary Jane’s resilience and willingness to jump into the fray when her partner needs assistance.
3 Spider-Woman (Earth-8545)
Debuted in Exiles #20 by Judd Winick and Jim Calafiore
In the troubled timeline of Earth-8545, MJ embraces the role of Spider-Woman as the majority of heroes succumb to the Legacy Virus. Joining the Resistance, she stands against oppression, showcasing her determination to combat the crisis.
Dressed in a costume reminiscent of Peter Parker’s, Mary Jane wields powers akin to his. This version of Spider-Woman affords her a deeper connection to Marvel’s heroic community and showcases her potential as a significant force within the Marvel multiverse.
2 Carnage
Debuted in King in Black: Gwenom vs. Carnage #1 by Seanan McGuire and Flaviano Armentaro
While Mary Jane is currently known for her role as Venom, she also once transformed into the terrifying Carnage symbiote in a different universe. In Spider-Gwen’s Earth-65, MJ becomes this sinister incarnation after being overtaken by Knull.
Embracing the deadly powers of Carnage, Mary Jane’s iconic red hair merges with a red symbiotic form, proving her ability to navigate the complexities of being a symbiote host. This transformation underscores her connection to the dark and chaotic side of the Marvel Universe.
1 Jackpot
Debuted in The Amazing Spider-Man #31 by Celeste Bronfman and Alba Glez
Recently, Mary Jane has taken on the thrilling identity of Jackpot, stemming from her unique experiences in an alternate reality alongside Paul Rabin. Together, they create a Power Slots device, granting MJ random powers akin to a game of chance.
This innovative technology allows her to unleash a mix of impressive abilities, albeit with limitations to ensure her safety. Even with these constraints, her adventures as Jackpot underscore her evolving identity in the Marvel Universe, paving the way for new possibilities of heroism.