Mary Egida Rivera, the Filipino actress who charmed audiences as Lola, the grandmother of Ned Leeds in Spider-Man: No Way Home, has died at the age of 82. According to an obituary, she passed away peacefully on 15 April 2026 in Honolulu, Hawaii.
Her family confirmed to TMZ that Rivera had been placed on life support after suffering a stroke. The news has prompted an outpouring of tributes from fans and colleagues, particularly within the Filipino community, who saw her brief but memorable role as a moment of proud representation.
A career crowned by a Marvel cameo
Rivera's role in the 2021 film, directed by Jon Watts, was small but significant. She shared the screen with Jacob Batalon (Ned), Zendaya, and the two previous Spider-Men, Tobey Maguire and Andrew Garfield. Her character, Lola, appears in a key scene that underscores the importance of family—a theme that resonates across cultures.
In her obituary, her family noted that she was "very proud" to have been cast in the Marvel blockbuster. The film itself became a cultural phenomenon, and Rivera's participation linked her to a franchise that continues to dominate global box offices. Indeed, the latest instalment, Spider-Man: Brand New Day, recently broke North American records, and its global opening approached $1 billion, as reported by our coverage of that milestone.
Rivera's performance was celebrated not just for its warmth but for what it meant to many Filipinos. One Facebook tribute read: "Thank you for representing the Filipino community with such grace and pride when you portrayed Ned Leeds's Lola in Spider-Man: No Way Home. You will forever be loved, cherished, and missed. Paalam po, Lola."
The phrase "Paalam po"—a respectful farewell in Filipino—captures the deep affection felt for Rivera. Her casting was seen as a rare instance of authentic Filipino representation in a major Hollywood production, a point that resonated across Europe's own Filipino diaspora, particularly in cities like London, Paris, and Madrid.
Born in the Philippines, Rivera built a career in acting that spanned decades, though she remained best known internationally for her Marvel role. Her obituary describes a life devoted to family and faith, and she is survived by her husband, four children, eleven grandchildren, and four great-grandchildren.
Her death comes at a time when the entertainment industry is increasingly scrutinising representation. The success of Spider-Man: No Way Home and its sequels has kept the spotlight on the franchise, and Rivera's contribution is now part of that legacy. As the cultural highlights across Europe continue to celebrate diverse voices, Rivera's passing serves as a reminder of the importance of on-screen visibility.
Rivera's family has requested privacy as they mourn, but they have expressed gratitude for the outpouring of support. Her legacy, they say, will live on through her performances and the joy she brought to those who knew her.
