Has Marvel Just Revealed Bruce Banner’s New Role in Phase 6?
A new Marvel rumor may have revealed what Bruce Banner will be doing when he returns to the MCU in Phase 6. The Hulk has been a consistent presence in the franchise since Phase 1, despite having only one solo film, which was released more than 17 years ago.
Now, a new report suggests that Mark Ruffalo’s Bruce Banner is heading back to the classroom.
Why Is Bruce Banner Reportedly Becoming a Professor?
According to insider Daniel Ritchman, whose claim was reportedly supported by footage from the leaked Spider-Man: Brand New Day trailer, Bruce Banner will appear as a college professor in the upcoming Spider-Man film. This would mark Ruffalo’s first live-action MCU appearance since She-Hulk: Attorney at Law in 2022 and his first role in Phase 6.
While the rumor does not specify which institution Banner will teach at, set photos have confirmed that Massachusetts Institute of Technology will appear in the film. Since both Ned Leeds and MJ are set to attend MIT, it is highly possible that Banner will be teaching there, opening the door for Peter Parker to cross paths with both his old friends and a longtime Avenger.
What Is Spider-Man: Brand New Day About?
Spider-Man: Brand New Day will be the second film released in Marvel’s Phase 6 slate and the fourth MCU Spider-Man movie overall. The film stars Tom Holland, Zendaya, Jacob Batalon, Mark Ruffalo, Jon Bernthal, and Michael Mando.
Set in a world that no longer remembers Peter Parker, the movie will reportedly introduce a range of new threats as Spider-Man navigates life completely on his own. Spider-Man: Brand New Day is currently scheduled to release in theaters on July 31, 2026.
Will Hulk Return to His Savage Form?
Bruce Banner was last seen in She-Hulk returning to Earth with his son, Skaar, while still in his Smart Hulk form. His rumored role as a professor fits naturally with his current arc, as Banner has long tried to atone for the destruction caused by the Hulk by sharing his knowledge and helping others.
However, reports strongly suggest that Banner will revert to his Savage Hulk form in this movie. If true, this would mark the Hulk’s first full return to his uncontrollable state since Avengers: Infinity War in 2018.
Brand New Day is also rumored to feature the Hulk at his most terrifying, potentially putting Peter Parker and New York City at extreme risk if Banner loses control.
How Does This Set Up Avengers: Doomsday?
While details surrounding Banner’s transformation remain unclear, his presence is expected to play a major role in Spider-Man’s journey. With additional threats like the Punisher and Scorpion looming, Peter Parker is reportedly facing some of the most intense challenges of his MCU career.
Fans are now waiting for official confirmation, especially after the first Spider-Man 4 trailer briefly leaked online before being taken down. That footage, or a future official trailer, is expected to clarify Bruce Banner’s true role and how it ties into the larger MCU narrative leading into Avengers: Doomsday.
