Spider-Man: Brand New Day has swung into theaters and shattered box office records, but beyond the action and heart, it's the cameos that have fans buzzing. The film, starring Tom Holland and Zendaya, is a love letter to Spider-Man lore, packed with surprise appearances that range from subtle nods to full-blown fan service. Here are the best cameos in the movie, ranked.
8. The Daily Bugle Crew
J.K. Simmons returns as J. Jonah Jameson, but this time he's not alone. The Daily Bugle's chaotic newsroom gets a few extra faces, including a quick shot of Betty Brant and even a nod to Robbie Robertson. It's a small but delightful reminder that the Bugle is a cornerstone of Spider-Man's world.
7. A Familiar Face from the Netflix Era
In a blink-and-you'll-miss-it moment, a character who looks suspiciously like Rosario Dawson's Claire Temple appears in a hospital scene. While her role was reportedly cut from the final film, the brief glimpse is a fun Easter egg for fans of the Marvel Netflix shows. It's a shame we didn't get more, but it's a nice nod to the wider Marvel TV universe.
6. The Spider-Verse Shoutout
During a multiverse-hopping sequence, the film briefly shows a silhouette that strongly resembles Miles Morales from the animated Spider-Verse. It's a quick shot, but it's enough to send fans into a frenzy, hinting at the infinite possibilities of the Spider-Verse. This cameo is more about what it promises than what it delivers.
5. A Classic Villain's Surprise Return
In a post-credits scene that sets up a future showdown, we see a familiar symbiote. The black goo oozes into frame, and while we don't see the full Venom, the implication is clear. This cameo is a game-changer, especially for those who've been waiting for Holland's Spider-Man to face off against the iconic villain. It's a tease that pays off years of fan speculation.
4. The Kingpin's Shadow
Vincent D'Onofrio's Wilson Fisk looms large in this film, but his most memorable moment is a quiet one. In a scene where Fisk is meeting with a mysterious figure, the camera pans to a chessboard, and we see a single black pawn. It's a subtle but powerful image that suggests Fisk is always playing the long game. This cameo is a masterclass in understated menace.
3. A Hero from the Shadows
In a mid-credit scene, we see a figure in the shadows, watching Spider-Man from a rooftop. The camera slowly reveals the silhouette of Daredevil, complete with his billy club. It's a brief but electrifying moment that has fans clamoring for a full team-up. This cameo is a promise of something bigger, and it's executed perfectly.
2. The Return of a Fan Favorite
Andrew Garfield's Spider-Man makes a surprise appearance during the multiverse chaos. His quick quip and heartfelt exchange with Holland's Peter Parker is a touching moment that bridges generations of Spider-Man fans. Garfield's cameo is a reminder of the character's enduring legacy, and it's a scene that will be replayed for years.
1. The Ultimate Surprise
Topping our list is a cameo that no one saw coming: Tobey Maguire's Spider-Man. In a quiet moment, Maguire's Peter Parker shares a conversation with Holland's Peter, offering wisdom and a sense of closure. It's a cameo that feels earned, not just for nostalgia, but for the emotional weight it carries. This is the kind of moment that makes Brand New Day a truly special entry in the Spider-Man saga.
These cameos are more than just fan service; they're a testament to the rich history of Spider-Man across comics, film, and television. They also highlight how the MCU's shared universe continues to expand, as seen in our analysis of the film's shared universe. For more on the film's box office success, check out our record-breaking opening day report. And if you're curious about the hidden Easter eggs, we've got you covered with our breakdown of the film's secrets.
Whether you're a die-hard comic fan or a casual moviegoer, Spider-Man: Brand New Day delivers cameos that will leave you cheering. It's a celebration of everything that makes Spider-Man great, and it's a must-see on the big screen.
