Jacob Batalon, who portrays Ned Leeds in Spider-Man: Brand New Day, has shared his perspective on the film's climactic scene between Ned and Peter Parker. The moment, which concludes with a handshake, has led to speculation about whether Ned's memories of Peter have been restored.
Set approximately five years after the events of Spider-Man: No Way Home, Brand New Day finds Ned and MJ still unaware of Peter's identity as Spider-Man. This occurs despite MJ finding a letter from Peter professing his love. However, subtle clues throughout the film suggest subconscious recollections of Peter may persist. MJ is shown drawing Spider-Man in his original suit, and the film ends with her revisiting a significant rooftop location, holding a necklace Peter gave her.
Other elements in the film also hint at lingering connections. The Hulk, after an encounter involving Jean Grey's powers, is suggested to also remember Peter, which may explain why he allows Spider-Man to escape. Batalon described the final handshake scene with Ned as deliberately "a little open-ended."
"What if it’s just muscle memory? What if he just remembers that handshake but nothing else about Peter? What if he just repeats 'Peter' because that’s what Peter says his name is in that moment? I don’t know," Batalon told The Hollywood Reporter. He added that the scene could represent "a slight glint or little glimmer" of recognition, leaving its interpretation to the audience.
Batalon also addressed the post-credits scene featuring the Spidey Tracker app developed by Ned, admitting he had no insider knowledge regarding its significance. "You think me, of all people, knows top-brass-level information? Come on," he stated.
With Spider-Man: Brand New Day achieving box office success, future installments are likely to explore the full restoration of MJ and Ned's memories of Peter Parker. Marvel Studios president Kevin Feige has indicated plans for further Spider-Man adventures, and star Tom Holland has expressed interest in introducing Miles Morales into the Marvel Cinematic Universe.