The Venom franchise has become a major part of Sony’s shared Marvel Universe, known as Sony’s Spider-Man Universe (SSU). As Venom continues to gain attention for its darker tone, anti-hero characters, and thrilling action sequences, fans have begun speculating whether Spider-Man will appear in Venom 3. The possibility of Spider-Man entering Eddie Brock’s world is especially enticing due to the long history these two characters share in the comics. However, this raises an exciting question: who will play Spider-Man in Venom 3?
Sony’s Shared Marvel Universe and the Role of Spider-Man
The character of Spider-Man has undergone significant development within different cinematic universes, most notably Sony’s Spider-Man franchise, and more recently, the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU). When Sony introduced the Venom franchise, many wondered whether Spider-Man would be involved. Historically, Venom’s origin story has been closely tied to Spider-Man in the comics, making the web-slinger a logical addition to the Venom films.
However, until now, Spider-Man’s appearances in Venom films have been minimal or hinted at rather than being a major presence. With Venom 3 on the horizon, and the continued success of Spider-Man in both Sony and MCU movies, there is growing speculation that Spider-Man might finally appear in a larger role. Who will take on the iconic role of Spider-Man, and how will his introduction affect the ongoing storyline of the Venom franchise?
The Legacy of Spider-Man Actors
The role of Spider-Man has been iconic in Hollywood for decades, with multiple actors taking up the mantle of Peter Parker. From Tobey Maguire in Sam Raimi’s original Spider-Man trilogy to Andrew Garfield in The Amazing Spider-Man series, and most recently Tom Holland in the MCU, each actor brought something unique to the character. Understanding the past actors who portrayed Spider-Man is crucial in analyzing who might continue the legacy in Venom 3.
Tobey Maguire’s Spider-Man
Tobey Maguire is the original Spider-Man for many fans, as he starred in the first big-budget live-action adaptation of the superhero. Released between 2002 and 2007, the trilogy directed by Sam Raimi was groundbreaking for superhero movies, with Spider-Man 2 considered one of the best films in the genre. Maguire’s portrayal of Peter Parker was earnest and emotional, capturing the essence of the “everyman” superhero. His version of Spider-Man is known for the more serious tone of the films, and his battles against iconic villains like Green Goblin and Doctor Octopus.
While Maguire’s return to the Spider-Man role seemed unlikely after his trilogy concluded, 2021’s Spider-Man: No Way Home changed that. Maguire reprised his role in a multiverse-spanning storyline, delighting fans who longed to see him return. Given his re-entry into the Marvel universe, many now wonder whether he could continue to appear in future films, perhaps even in Venom 3.
Andrew Garfield’s Spider-Man
Following Tobey Maguire, Andrew Garfield took up the Spider-Man mantle in 2012’s The Amazing Spider-Man and its sequel. Directed by Marc Webb, these films presented a darker, more introspective take on the character. Garfield’s Peter Parker was portrayed as more emotionally vulnerable, and his relationship with Gwen Stacy (Emma Stone) became a central plot point. Although these films were divisive, many praised Garfield’s portrayal of Spider-Man, particularly for his witty, charismatic, and relatable take on the character.
Like Maguire, Garfield returned in Spider-Man: No Way Home, playing a significant role in the film’s multiverse story. His performance was so well-received that fans have been calling for Garfield to return for future projects, even suggesting that he could take up the Spider-Man role in the Venom universe. This possibility has led to a surge in speculation about whether Garfield’s Spider-Man could cross over into Venom 3, especially since his darker tone might align well with the world of Venom.
Tom Holland’s Spider-Man
Currently, Tom Holland is the most recent actor to portray Spider-Man, first appearing in 2016’s Captain America: Civil War and continuing in several MCU films, including his solo Spider-Man trilogy. Holland’s Peter Parker has been praised for his youthful energy, humor, and relatability. His Spider-Man is very much a part of the larger MCU, interacting with characters like Iron Man and Doctor Strange. Holland’s portrayal represents a younger, more inexperienced Spider-Man who is learning how to balance his personal life with his superhero duties.
Tom Holland’s Spider-Man has not yet crossed over into the Venom franchise, though the post-credits scene of Venom: Let There Be Carnage strongly hinted at a potential crossover. Many believe that Holland is the most likely actor to appear as Spider-Man in Venom 3, especially given his ongoing success as the character within the MCU. However, this also depends on the relationship between Sony and Marvel Studios, which may affect the availability of Holland’s Spider-Man for non-MCU films.
See also: What Is Venom 3 Going To Be About?
The Possibilities: Who Could Play Spider-Man in Venom 3?
With multiple actors having played Spider-Man in recent years, the question of who will appear in Venom 3 becomes complex. Below, we’ll explore the various possibilities, from a returning actor to a completely new face.
1. Tom Holland: The Likely Choice?
Tom Holland remains the most likely candidate to play Spider-Man in Venom 3 due to his current association with the character. Holland’s youthful, lighthearted version of Peter Parker contrasts with the darker tone of the Venom films, but this could make for an intriguing dynamic if the two characters cross paths. Furthermore, since Holland is already the established Spider-Man within Sony’s shared universe, it would make narrative sense to have his version of the character appear in Venom 3.
However, the involvement of the MCU complicates matters. Marvel Studios and Sony Pictures have had to negotiate in the past over Spider-Man’s appearance in different films, and this could impact whether Holland’s Spider-Man is able to appear in Venom 3. Additionally, Holland himself has expressed uncertainty about how long he will continue playing the character, suggesting that Venom 3 could either extend his time as Spider-Man or offer a final crossover before he steps away from the role.
2. Andrew Garfield: The Fan-Favorite Candidate
Since the release of Spider-Man: No Way Home, Andrew Garfield has experienced a resurgence of popularity as Spider-Man. His emotional, earnest portrayal of the character resonated with many fans, and his performance in No Way Home reminded audiences why they loved his version of Peter Parker. Given that Garfield’s films were a bit darker in tone compared to Holland’s, some fans believe that his Spider-Man would fit more naturally into the world of Venom.
Garfield has expressed interest in returning to the Spider-Man role if the story and character arc are right. A crossover with Venom could provide the perfect opportunity for Garfield’s Spider-Man to continue his journey, potentially exploring themes of redemption, grief, and heroism that were left unresolved in his previous films. Furthermore, since the Venom films exist outside of the MCU, Garfield’s Spider-Man could return without interfering with the MCU’s narrative continuity.
3. Tobey Maguire: The Nostalgic Candidate
Tobey Maguire’s return in Spider-Man: No Way Home was one of the film’s most nostalgic and heartwarming moments. For many fans, Maguire is still the definitive Spider-Man, and his mature, experienced version of the character could bring an interesting dynamic to Venom 3. Given the long-standing history between Maguire’s Spider-Man and Venom in the comics, some fans have speculated that Maguire could appear in Venom 3 as an older, more seasoned Peter Parker.
Although Maguire’s involvement is less likely than Holland or Garfield’s, it’s not impossible. Maguire has shown that he’s willing to return to the role under the right circumstances, and the idea of an older Spider-Man crossing paths with Eddie Brock could create a unique and compelling storyline. If Venom 3 leans heavily into multiverse storytelling, Maguire’s Spider-Man could be a great candidate to make an appearance.
4. A New Spider-Man: A Bold Move?
While fans are focused on whether Holland, Garfield, or Maguire will reprise their roles in Venom 3, there is also the possibility that Sony could introduce a brand-new Spider-Man to the franchise. This new version of the character could offer a fresh take on Peter Parker or perhaps even explore alternate versions of Spider-Man, such as Miles Morales, who has become a popular character in both comics and animated films.
A new Spider-Man would allow Sony to create a distinct narrative within the Venom franchise, unburdened by the existing continuity of the MCU or previous Spider-Man films. This could provide an exciting opportunity to tell a different kind of Spider-Man story, one that fits more seamlessly into the darker, anti-hero world of Venom.
How Will Spider-Man Be Introduced in Venom 3?
If Spider-Man does appear in Venom 3, the manner in which he is introduced will be key to the success of the crossover. The post-credits scene in Venom: Let There Be Carnage suggested that the multiverse will play a significant role in future films, and the introduction of the multiverse in Spider-Man: No Way Home has opened the door for characters from different universes to interact.
Multiverse Storyline
The multiverse has become a major theme in recent Marvel films, particularly in the MCU, where characters from different dimensions have started crossing over. If Venom 3 continues this trend, it’s possible that Spider-Man could be brought into Eddie Brock’s universe through a multiverse-related event. This would allow for the inclusion of any version of Spider-Man, whether it’s Holland, Garfield, or Maguire, without disrupting the continuity of their previous films.
An Existing Relationship Between Spider-Man and Venom
Another possibility is that Venom 3 could introduce Spider-Man as already existing in Eddie Brock’s world. While the first two Venom films did not feature Spider-Man, it’s possible that the third film could retcon the story to suggest that Peter Parker has been part of this universe all along. This would allow for a more organic introduction of the character, without relying on multiverse storytelling.
An Ally or an Enemy?
If Spider-Man does appear in Venom 3, his role in the story could go in several directions. Traditionally, Venom and Spider-Man have had a complicated relationship, beginning as enemies before eventually becoming uneasy allies. It’s possible that Venom 3 could follow this trajectory, with Spider-Man initially clashing with Eddie Brock before the two characters find common ground. Alternatively, Spider-Man could serve as a true antagonist in the film, pitting the heroic web-slinger against Venom in a thrilling battle.
Conclusion
The question of who will play Spider-Man in Venom 3 has sparked widespread speculation and excitement among fans. With multiple actors having portrayed Spider-Man over the years, the potential for a crossover with Venom is both tantalizing and complex. While Tom Holland remains the most likely candidate, the return of Andrew Garfield or Tobey Maguire could offer equally compelling storylines. There’s even the possibility of introducing a new Spider-Man, further expanding Sony’s Spider-Man Universe.
Regardless of who dons the suit, the introduction of Spider-Man in Venom 3 promises to be a major event in the world of superhero films. Fans are eager to see how the relationship between these iconic characters will unfold, and the decision of who will play Spider-Man is sure to have a lasting impact on both the Venom franchise and the larger Marvel universe. As we await further announcements, one thing is certain: Spider-Man’s eventual appearance in Venom 3 will be a monumental moment for fans of both characters.
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