Shang-Chi and Black Widow Villains Could Join Spider-Man: Brand New Day, Rumors Suggest

Fans of Spider-Man can mark their calendars: the fourth film in the series, titled Spider-Man: Brand New Day, is set to swing into theaters on July 31, 2026. Tom Holland will reprise his role as Peter Parker, with Zendaya returning as MJ. Directing the project is Destin Daniel Cretton, known for Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings.

Details about the story have been scarce, but new rumors are sparking excitement. Alex Perez from The Cosmic Circus shared insights about potential villains, hinting at a fresh direction. “I did find out some new information about the villains, and hopefully this new lead points us in the right direction,” Perez said. “Some new concept art now features a Samurai character. If it is who I think it is, it’s possible we may very well be looking at Viper and Silver Samurai as the main antagonists for Spider-Man: Brand New Day.”

This could mean a clash with the Silver Samurai and Viper, a departure from earlier speculation about villains like Green Goblin or Knull. Perez also suggested a possible team-up between Spider-Man and Shang-Chi, which would bring a unique dynamic to the franchise.

The film’s development has had its twists. Early talks began in 2019, and after Spider-Man: No Way Home, Marvel and Sony debated two paths: a Multiverse-driven story continuing from No Way Home or a grounded, street-level tale featuring Daredevil and Kingpin.

The return of Robert Downey Jr. as Doctor Doom in the MCU seems to have tipped the scales toward a Multiverse focus. Kevin Feige, Marvel’s president, confirmed in 2021 that Marvel and Sony were collaborating closely to avoid past disputes that nearly derailed the partnership. Even with delays from the 2023 writers’ strike, Holland stayed involved, emphasizing his commitment to keeping the story true to Peter Parker’s core.

Filming is slated to start in mid-2025. The cast is growing, with Sadie Sink and Liza Colón-Zayas joining in undisclosed roles. Holland, whose contract ended after No Way Home, had once hinted at passing the torch to Miles Morales but ultimately signed on for this sequel, backed by producer Amy Pascal’s enthusiasm.

Spider-Man: Brand New Day promises to take Peter Parker into uncharted territory, potentially blending Multiverse stakes with new allies and foes.

Spider-Man: Brand New Day sounds like it could shake up the franchise with Silver Samurai and Viper as villains, and a Shang-Chi crossover would be a bold, fresh move. I love that Holland is staying true to Peter Parker’s heart, but I’m curious how the Multiverse angle will play out after No Way Home set such a high bar.

The addition of new cast members like Sadie Sink has me intrigued, though I hope the story stays focused. What do you think about these villain rumors and the Multiverse direction? Share your thoughts in the comments below!