Zendaya is already a familiar face within the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU),
but the upcoming film, Spider-Man: Brand New Day, might present her with the opportunity
to embrace a full-fledged superhero role, thanks to intriguing theories stemming from the comics. Following the dramatic
conclusion of Spider-Man: No Way Home, the next installment in Tom Holland’s Spider-Man series could
venture into uncharted territory. With Peter Parker finding himself isolated from his loved ones and needing to
don the Spider-suit more frequently, the narrative is set for a transformative change.
As depicted in the climax of No Way Home, Peter still yearns for connections with those he holds dear,
especially Michelle Jones (MJ). Despite their shared past, the forthcoming Brand New Day arc offers a
fresh lens through which Peter could reconnect with MJ. This narrative becomes a compelling justification for
Zendaya’s potential return, despite her character’s amnesia regarding Peter Parker, allowing for nuanced
storytelling that adheres closely to established comic lore.
Spider-Man: Brand New Day’s Comic Inspiration Indicates MJ’s Limited Role
The Impact of Brand New Day on Spider-Man 4
The Brand New Day storyline acts as a sequel to the controversial One More Day, sharing
thematic elements with No Way Home. In this arc, Peter Parker’s secret identity is forgotten by everyone,
including MJ, or Mary-Jane Watson in the comics. However, in the film, Michelle Jones forgets the identity of Peter,
showcasing a fascinating connection between the two interpretations. Regardless, Brand New Day charts
a new course for Parker, leading him down a path where he temporarily steps away from his role as Spider-Man.
Within the comics, Peter chooses to keep a low profile, which results in MJ having less involvement in his story.
With their relationship strained and MJ entering into a new romantic dynamic, her character’s presence in the
forthcoming film seems minimal. While it is plausible that Zendaya’s MJ might remember there was a Spider-Man,
it is improbable she will play a substantial role in Peter’s journey of self-discovery and the quest to protect his
loved ones while operating from a distance.
A Lookalike Hero from Brand New Day Might Allow Zendaya More Screen Time
Zendaya’s Potential Expansion in Spider-Man 4
Interestingly, the comics introduce Jackpot, a superhero possessing a significant resemblance to MJ. In
this storyline, Peter Parker even confuses Jackpot for his former love, Mary-Jane Watson. However, Jackpot is
actually a separate character named Sara Ehret. This resemblance opens up the possibility for Zendaya to return
as the superhero Jackpot, providing a unique opportunity to reunite with Holland’s Spider-Man under entirely
new circumstances. This development would transition Zendaya’s role into that of a superhero in the MCU,
breaking away from being merely a supporting character.
The MCU Might Even Advance to MJ Taking on the Jackpot Mantle
The Arrival of Jackpot in the MCU
Since her debut in 2007, Jackpot has undergone a myriad of transformations within Marvel Comics.
While she plays a pivotal role alongside Spider-Man in the Brand New Day arc, she is not MJ. Yet, the
mantle of Jackpot has been passed on multiple times, with the most recent iteration witnessing Mary-Jane
adopting the alias after receiving a special device that grants random powers—albeit with accompanying risks.
This recent development presents Marvel Studios with the flexibility to adapt this narrative, either by having
Sara Ehret pass the mantle to MJ or merely introducing her as the MCU’s version of Jackpot from the outset.
Whatever direction the script takes for Spider-Man: Brand New Day, the potential depth and new character
dynamics to explore are plentiful, with Jackpot emerging as a captivating possibility for inclusion in the movie.