Eman Esfandi Rumored to Join the Marvel Cinematic Universe in Spider-Man: Brand New Day

Eman Esfandi, known for his role in Ahsoka, is reportedly making a significant leap from a galaxy far, far away to the Marvel Cinematic Universe with Spider-Man: Brand New Day. Fans, however, are skeptical about his casting, speculating that he might be portraying one of Marvel’s most controversial characters.

Spider-Man: Brand New Day will be Tom Holland’s fourth solo outing as Peter Parker, continuing the story after 2022’s No Way Home. That film concluded with the entire world forgetting Peter’s identity as Spider-Man, including MJ (Zendaya) and Ned (Jacob Batalon). Although plot details are still under wraps, fans are eagerly awaiting what the sequel has in store.

Returning and New Cast Members

Marvel has confirmed the return of key characters such as Jon Bernthal’s Punisher, Mark Ruffalo’s Hulk/Bruce Banner, and Michael Mando’s Scorpion. Additionally, Stranger Things star Sadie Sink has joined the cast amidst rampant speculation about her role—whether she’ll be Jean Grey, Gwen Stacy, or Firestar.

Fan Theories: Eman Esfandi as Paul Rabin

The most buzz revolves around Esfandi potentially playing Paul Rabin, a character introduced during Zeb Wells’ 2022 run on The Amazing Spider-Man. On January 3, respected insider DanielRPK suggested that Esfandi would be cast as MJ’s new boyfriend in the film, fueling fan theories that the MCU might adapt elements from the comics.

Who is Paul Rabin?

In the comics, Paul Rabin appears during a storyline where MJ is trapped on an alternate Earth after Spider-Man’s confrontation with Wayep, the Mayan God of Mischief. She spends four years there due to time dilation and falls in love with Paul, believing she cannot return home. The story complicates Peter’s feelings, especially since MJ and Paul adopt two children together.

Grounded MCU Adaptation?

Since Brand New Day aims to be more grounded, fans expect the film to skip the alternate universe plotline. Instead, they believe the inclusion of Paul Rabin may serve as a subtle nod rather than a direct adaptation, perhaps exploring MJ’s new relationship and its impact on Peter.

Fan Reactions

Reddit users have expressed disapproval at the idea of Esfandi playing Paul. Comments include:

• “Hope it’s Paul just to hear Peter groan at the name of some Paul in disgust like we fans did for years.”
• “Dread it. Run from it. Paul arrives all the same.”
• “We’re getting MCU Paul before the Blade movie.”

Others pointed out that even if Esfandi does portray Paul, it’s likely a loose reference rather than an exact comic adaptation. One Redditor noted:

“It’s not like Paul himself was THE problem with that story, and given what we saw in No Way Home, Peter’s decision to stay out of MJ and Ned’s lives could make a different interpretation of Paul very interesting.”

What’s Next?

While details are still scarce, fans are eagerly awaiting more news about Spider-Man: Brand New Day. Meanwhile, stay tuned for updates on Sadie Sink’s rumored Punisher role, Sony’s recent dealings with Marvel Studios, and the most anticipated movies of 2026.