Michael Mando is confirmed to reprise his role as Mac Gargan, also known as Scorpion, in the upcoming Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) film Spider Man: Brand New Day. The movie, directed by Destin Daniel Cretton, is set to release on July 31, 2026, and features Tom Holland as Peter Parker/Spider-Man, alongside Mark Ruffalo as Bruce Banner/Hulk and Jon Bernthal as Frank Castle/Punisher.
Mando first appeared as Gargan in 2017’s Spider-Man: Homecoming, where his character was a criminal with ties to Adrian Toomes/The Vulture (Michael Keaton). Fans have long speculated about his return as the full-fledged villain Scorpion, and this announcement confirms those expectations.
Michael Mando’s Role as Scorpion in Spider-Man: Brand New Day
Michael Mando’s Mac Gargan was last seen in Spider-Man: Homecoming during a post-credits scene, where he was imprisoned and asked Toomes about Spider-Man’s identity. Since then, fans have eagerly awaited his transformation into Scorpion, a classic Spider-Man villain known for his mechanical tail and ruthless nature.
In Spider-Man: Brand New Day, Gargan is expected to break out of prison and finally adopt his comic-book alter-ego. Reports suggest he will be a major antagonist, possibly teaming up with other villains to challenge Spider-Man.
“Michael Mando’s intensity in roles like Nacho Varga in Better Call Saul makes him perfect for Scorpion. Fans are excited to see him bring that same energy to the MCU.”
Mando’s casting aligns with Marvel’s plan to focus on street-level threats in this film, moving away from multiverse storylines seen in Spider-Man: No Way Home (2021).
Spider-Man: Brand New Day’s Star-Studded Cast
The film brings together a mix of returning and new characters:
- Tom Holland as Peter Parker/Spider-Man – Now living in a world where no one remembers him after Doctor Strange’s spell in No Way Home.
- Zendaya as MJ – Peter’s former girlfriend, who no longer remembers their relationship.
- Jacob Batalon as Ned Leeds – Peter’s best friend, also affected by the memory wipe.
- Jon Bernthal as Frank Castle/Punisher – A brutal vigilante who may clash with Spider-Man’s no-kill rule.
- Mark Ruffalo as Bruce Banner/Hulk – Rumored to mentor Peter in this film.
- Sadie Sink in an undisclosed role – Speculated to play Gwen Stacy or another key character.
- Liza Colón-Zayas – Possibly playing Rio Morales, mother of Miles Morales, hinting at future Spider-Verse connections.
What We Know About the Story
Spider-Man: Brand New Day will follow Peter Parker as he adjusts to life after No Way Home, where everyone forgot his identity. The film is expected to be more grounded, focusing on New York City’s street-level crime, rather than cosmic or multiversal threats.
“Kevin Feige confirmed this will be a ‘proper Spider-Man’ story, bringing him back to his roots as a neighborhood hero.”
Leaked set photos suggest Scorpion will be part of a prison break sequence, possibly involving The Punisher. There are also rumors of Mister Negative appearing as another villain, though this has not been officially confirmed.
Production and Release Details
- Director: Destin Daniel Cretton (Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings).
- Writers: Chris McKenna & Erik Sommers (who worked on previous MCU Spider-Man films).
- Filming Locations: Pinewood Studios (UK) and Glasgow, Scotland.
- Release Date: July 31, 2026.
The film is part of MCU’s Phase Six and will set up future storylines, possibly leading into Avengers: Doomsday (2026).
Fan Reactions and Expectations
Fans are thrilled about Mando’s return and the potential for a darker, more intense villain in the MCU. Many hope to see a brutal showdown between Scorpion and Spider-Man, with possible involvement from The Punisher.
“Finally, Scorpion is getting his due! Michael Mando was underused in Homecoming, but now he can really shine.” – Marvel fan on social media.
Others are curious about how Hulk and Punisher will fit into Spider-Man’s world, given their contrasting approaches to justice.
Also Read: Jon Bernthal Returns as The Punisher in Spider-Man: Brand New Day; See Details
