A new fan theory circulating online offers a magical explanation for the ambiguous ending of Spider-Man: Brand New Day, in which Ned appears to regain memories of Peter Parker that were erased by a spell at the end of No Way Home. The theory suggests that the pair's signature handshake, performed shortly after Ned had begun channelling magic through Doctor Strange's sling ring in the earlier film, may have become imbued with enough residual magic to break the memory spell when repeated in the new film's closing scene.

In the film's final moments, Peter reintroduces himself to Ned at a bodega, and after they perform their handshake, Ned exclaims "Peter!" before the scene cuts to black, leaving audiences divided over whether this confirms his memory has fully returned. Ned's actor, Jacob Batalon, discussed the scene with The Hollywood Reporter but declined to confirm the theory, suggesting the moment could instead reflect "muscle memory" or merely a "slight glint" of recognition rather than complete restoration. No further Tom Holland Spider-Man films have been officially confirmed, though Marvel boss Kevin Feige has indicated more instalments are planned, potentially building towards Miles Morales' introduction to the MCU.