Marvel and Sony's joint reboot of the "Spider-Man" franchise has cast a mysterious new role, with actress and singer Zendaya joining the ensemble.

Deadline reports that Zendaya will play "a key role" in the new Spidey flick, alongside titular star Tom Holland. Just what that role entails remains to be seen, however, since plot details are being kept heavily under wraps.

According to Deadline, it's unlikely that the actress will be playing a romantic role (like famous Peter Parker girlfriends Mary Jane Watson and Gwen Stacy); her character's name is believed to be Michelle. Variety has some additional intel, confirming Deadline's report that Zendaya won't be a love interest, and adding that the actress isn't even considered to be a lead in the flick. Instead, Variety says, "She will, however, play a bigger part in future installments."

The new "Spider-Man" franchise -- the third iteration of the character to hit the big screen since 2002 -- is going back to Peter Parker's high school days, and will apparently have a John Hughes vibe. Zendaya is no stranger to catering to the teenage crowd, having gotten her start on Disney programs "Shake It Up!" and "K.C. Undercover." The actress has graduated to more adult fare in recent years, including appearances on "Dancing With the Stars" and a guest starring gig on "Black-ish."

"Spider-Man" is set to hit theaters on July 7, 2017.

[via: Deadline, Variety]

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