Mary Rivera, Ned’s Grandma in ‘Spider-Man: No Way Home,’ Dies at 82

Mary Rivera, the actress who portrayed Ned's grandmother in the 2021 Marvel film Spider-Man: No Way Home, has passed away at the age of 82. Although her role in the movie was brief, her memorable performance left a lasting impression on audiences. Notably, Rivera's only acting role to date was in this blockbuster film, which was encouraged by her family after they spotted a casting call on Facebook.

Her daughter, Kelly, recounted how they encouraged their mother to audition, as she fitted the description of a Filipina grandmother between 50 and 90 years old. During her audition, Rivera shared her life story, highlighting her upbringing in the Philippines, her journey to the United States, and her role as a mother to four children and grandmother to 11 grandchildren, which she deemed her greatest accomplishment.

Sadly, Rivera suffered a severe stroke in April, from which she never recovered. Jacob Batalon, who portrays Ned in the Spider-Man franchise, expressed his condolences on Instagram, sharing that Rivera had found "peace." As Spider-Man: Brand New Day, the sequel to No Way Home, continues to break box-office records, fans may hope for a tribute to the late actress in future installments.