Sadie Sink, known for her role as Max Mayfield in Stranger Things, is reportedly joining Tom Holland in Spider-Man 4. Deadline reports Sink, whose film debut was in the 2016 film Chuck, will appear in the upcoming MCU movie. Filming begins later this year, with a release date set for July 31, 2026.
Marvel and Sony have declined to comment on the casting news. Deadline speculates Sink's role could be either Jean Grey or another popular redheaded Spider-Man character, possibly hinting at Mary Jane Watson. However, how this would integrate with Peter Parker's current relationship with MJ (Zendaya) remains unclear. Deadline suggests Sink will have a significant role, potentially contributing to a narrative reset following the events of Spider-Man: No Way Home, where Peter's identity was erased.
Holland is currently filming Christopher Nolan's The Odyssey, with Spider-Man 4 filming slated to begin upon its completion.
Late last year, Marvel Studios head Kevin Feige hinted at the introduction of X-Men characters in upcoming MCU films. He teased the appearance of recognizable X-Men characters in the "next few" MCU movies, without specifying which characters or films.
Feige further elaborated on the X-Men's integration into the MCU, stating that their presence would continue in upcoming movies, leading into the Secret Wars storyline, which he described as ushering in a new era for mutants and the X-Men.
Every Confirmed Mutant in the MCU (So Far)
Considering Marvel's upcoming slate, mutant appearances are likely spread throughout Phase 6 films, including Avengers: Doomsday and Spider-Man 4 (2026), and Avengers: Secret Wars (2027). The potential return of Deadpool, Wolverine, and even Channing Tatum as Gambit remains a significant question.
Feige emphasized the X-Men's crucial role in the MCU's future, particularly post-Secret Wars, highlighting a clear narrative path unlike the previous approach to Avengers: Endgame. He stated that the X-Men are a vital component of the MCU's future plans.
Phase 7 appears poised for X-Men dominance, although Storm's appearance in What If...? Season 3 marked her first entry into the wider MCU. With Marvel adding three untitled film projects to its 2028 release schedule, speculation mounts that at least one will feature the X-Men.
