Recent revelations from Marvel Comics hint at the identity of the new Venom host, but a sense of uncertainty lingers among fans. The symbiote has experienced a significant transformation in recent months, sporting a striking golden emblem and embodying a more reckless demeanor. Marvel initially proposed four contenders for the new Venom host: the ever-reliable sidekick Rick Jones, the superhero mayor Luke Cage, the villainous Madame Masque, and the determined journalist Robbie Robertson. With only one contender remaining, the question arises: is the story truly over?
In the latest preview of All-New Venom #5, readers witness Madame Masque interacting with the new Venom during a confrontation with MODOK. With Rick Jones now positioned as the new Sleeper Agent and Luke Cage eliminated as a candidate due to a physical mismatch—being too tall for the symbiote to use—this seemingly confirms that Robbie Robertson is the new host. Yet, many Marvel enthusiasts remain skeptical about this conclusion.

Marvel’s storytelling strategies typically avoid contrived misdirections, making the notion that none of the four candidates could become the new Venom seem implausible. Speculation has run rampant over who might truly be beneath the symbiote. Early on, there were whispers suggesting that Mary Jane Watson’s new partner Paul was a likely choice. However, the conversation has shifted back to MJ herself.
Is Robbie Robertson the New Venom?
What Makes Fans Speculate Mary Jane Watson as the Host?

There’s mounting speculation that Spider-Man’s long-time ally and love interest, Mary Jane Watson, could be the one wearing the new Venom symbiote. This theory gained traction following a viral post on X from @iREUS_SA, featuring a variant cover by artist Clayton Crain, depicting Mary Jane adorned with the symbiote. This variant aligns stylistically with other covers from the ongoing series, each showcasing various potential hosts.
pic.twitter.com/TIJk5GWJQq — REUS | رويس (@iREUS_SA) March 27, 2025
Though Marvel has yet to validate this artwork, it resonates with the narrative hints and structure established so far. From the beginning, the scattered collection of potential hosts made fans lean toward Rick Jones, given his history of diverse superhero personas. However, that speculation was dashed when Rick’s role as the host of the memory-erasing symbiote Sleeper was unveiled, leaving fans to reconsider their theories.
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