Who is MJ’s new BF? ‘Spider-Man: Brand New Day’ drops cheeky clip ahead of trailer release
It looks like Tom Holland's Peter Parker may have to battle more than just the bad guys in 'Spider-Man: Brand New Day'. A quick micro-clip confirmed MJ's (Zendaya) new love interest, currently an unidentified character (Eman Esfandi), and speculation is rife that it could be the infamous Paul Rabin from the comics. For those well-versed with the modern-day comic storyline, Paul happens to be MJ's romantic foil, making him one of the most-hated characters in the comics. Considering he is in the way of Parker and MJ getting together, it's safe to say the dislike for the character will trickle into the film. This adds another mystery character to the mix, alongside Sadie Sink, who is reportedly playing mutant Jean Grey.
First look at MJ and her new boyfriend in ‘SPIDER-MAN: BRAND NEW DAY’
— Marvel Updates (@marvel_updat3s) March 18, 2026
In theaters July 31. pic.twitter.com/gR7DoZ47pY
This comes on the back of rumors that 'Ahsoka' alum Eman Esfandi has reportedly been cast as Paul Rabin in the film. The clip sparked speculations that Esfandi's chemistry with MJ could mean he will play Paul in the upcoming film. The footage sees Holland's Parker looking forlorn as MJ and her mystery love interest share a cozy moment during what appears to be a house party. MJ and Parker's relationship comes to a bittersweet end in 'Spider-Man: No Way Home' after he asks Dr. Strange (Benedict Cumberbatch) to erase everyone's memory to protect the multiverse. He also convinces MJ and Ned (Jacob Batalon) that he will find them and remind them of who he is. The final moments of the film see him visit the duo at a coffee shop where MJ works to introduce himself, but he decides against it.
Fans hope to get some clarification about MJ's love interest through the trailer, which is expected to release sometime this week. A few short clips from the trailer recently surfaced online after Holland tagged a Spider-Man fan account from Peru. This marked the start of an exciting treasure hunt. The tagged handle featured a micro-clip that saw Parker in his new Spidey suit mid-air, carrying someone.
The plot of the film has been under wraps, but it is likely that it will be set before 'Avengers: Doomsday'. Holland's appearance as the friendly neighborhood web-slinger will also mark the final MCU film before 'Doomsday' and 'Secret Wars'. The new trailer is expected to offer a look at Sink's mystery character, while also providing first looks at Jon Bernthal's Punisher and Mark Ruffalo's Hulk. The cast includes returning favorites such as Zendaya as MJ, Batalon as Ned, and J.K. Simmons as J. Jonah Jameson. 'Spider-Man: Brand New Day' releases on July 31, 2026, in cinemas.
