Sadie Sink, known for her role as Max Mayfield in Stranger Things, is reportedly joining Tom Holland in Spider-Man 4. Deadline reports that Sink, whose film debut was in the 2016 film Chuck, will appear in the upcoming MCU movie, slated for release on July 31, 2026, with filming commencing later this year. Marvel and Sony have yet to comment on the casting.
Deadline speculates Sink's role might be either Jean Grey or another popular redheaded Spider-Man character, possibly hinting at Mary Jane Watson. However, how this introduction would affect Peter Parker's current relationship with MJ (Zendaya) remains unclear. The report suggests Sink will have a significant role, potentially acting as a reset following the events of Spider-Man: No Way Home, where Peter's identity was erased, leading to his reintroduction to MJ.
Holland is currently filming Christopher Nolan's The Odyssey, with Spider-Man 4 filming expected to begin afterward.
Late last year, Marvel Studios head Kevin Feige hinted at the introduction of X-Men characters in upcoming MCU films. He mentioned audiences would see recognizable X-Men characters in the "next few" MCU movies, without specifying which characters or films. Feige further emphasized the X-Men's importance in the MCU's future, particularly after Secret Wars.
Every Confirmed Mutant in the MCU (So Far)
Considering Feige's comments, mutant appearances are more likely throughout Phase 6, including Avengers: Doomsday, Spider-Man 4 (2026), and Avengers: Secret Wars (2027). The potential return of Deadpool, Wolverine, and even Channing Tatum as Gambit remains a question.
Feige highlighted the X-Men's crucial role in the MCU's future post-Secret Wars. He contrasted this with the planning for Avengers: Endgame, emphasizing the clearer roadmap for the MCU's future, with the X-Men playing a significant part. Phase 7 is expected to be heavily X-Men-focused. Storm's appearance in What If...? Season 3 marked her first appearance in the wider MCU.
Marvel Studios added three untitled movie projects to its 2028 release schedule (February 18, May 5, and November 10), increasing speculation that at least one will feature the X-Men.
