Exciting news has surfaced this month for fans of both Stranger Things and the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU). Sadie Sink, renowned for her role as Max Mayfield in the hit Netflix series, is reportedly set to join the cast of Spider-Man 4. According to Deadline, Sink, who debuted on the big screen in the 2016 biographical sports drama Chuck, will be part of the upcoming MCU film. Filming is scheduled to commence later this year, with the movie slated for release on July 31, 2026.
Despite the buzz, neither Marvel nor Sony have confirmed these reports when approached by Deadline. However, speculation is rife that Sink might portray either the iconic X-Men character Jean Grey or another beloved redheaded Spider-Man character. In-depth analyses by IGN have explored the various Marvel roles Sadie Sink could potentially take on in Spider-Man 4 and beyond within the MCU.
In a recent interview with Josh Horowitz, Sadie Sink addressed the speculation about her playing Jean Grey, remaining coy but admitting that the rumor is "awesome." When asked about discussions with Marvel Studios chief Kevin Feige or any Marvel representatives regarding Jean Grey, Sink replied, "No. I have nothing to say about this." However, she expressed enthusiasm about the rumors, stating, "The rumors are really cool though. It’s an awesome rumor!" Sink also acknowledged her familiarity with the Jean Grey character, saying, "It’s a great character, so it was cool to read!" She hinted at the excitement of potentially committing to a significant role in the MCU, noting, "I think that’s super exciting."
The interview concluded with Sink keeping her future plans under wraps, but Horowitz suggested revisiting the topic once Sink's role in the MCU is officially confirmed.
Last year, Marvel Studios boss Kevin Feige teased the integration of X-Men characters into upcoming MCU films. Speaking at the Disney APAC Content Showcase in Singapore, Feige hinted that fans would see "some X-Men players that you might recognize" in the next few MCU movies, though he did not specify which characters or films.
Feige elaborated on the MCU's future, stating, "I think you will see that continues in our next few movies with some X-Men players that you might recognize. Right after that, the whole story of Secret Wars really leads us into a new age of mutants and of the X-Men. Again, [it’s] one of those dreams come true. We finally have the X-Men back."
Looking at the MCU's upcoming slate, the next few films, assuming "few" refers to three, include Captain America: Brave New World, Thunderbolts*, and The Fantastic Four: First Steps set for July 2025. However, it seems more probable that mutant characters will feature prominently in Phase 6 movies, which include Avengers: Doomsday and Spider-Man 4 in 2026, and Avengers: Secret Wars in 2027. The question remains whether characters like Deadpool, Wolverine, and potentially Gambit, played by Channing Tatum, will return to the MCU following their successful standalone film.
Feige also emphasized the importance of the X-Men in the MCU's future post-Secret Wars, stating, "When we were preparing for Avengers: Endgame years ago, it was a question of getting to the grand finale of our narrative, and then we had to start all over again after that. This time, on the road to Secret Wars, we already know very well what the story is going to be until then and afterwards. The X-Men are an important part of that future."
It appears that Phase 7 of the MCU will be heavily influenced by the X-Men. In the short term, Storm made her first appearance in the wider MCU in What If...? Season 3.
Additionally, Marvel Studios has added three untitled movie projects to its 2028 release schedule: February 18, 2028; May 5, 2028; and November 10, 2028. It is increasingly likely that one of these films will be dedicated to the X-Men.
