Few Marvel characters carry the same weight in the Marvel Cinematic Universe as Spider-Man. He is the heart of street-level storytelling and one of the most bankable superheroes in cinema. However, despite his significance, Tom Holland’s latest remarks about not knowing what comes after ‘Spider-Man: Brand New Day’ have sparked speculation that Peter Parker’s future may not be as straightforward as fans expect.
In Marvel Comics, Spider-Man is not just a participant in ‘Secret Wars‘; he is a defining figure. So, how could the MCU possibly pull off Secret Wars without its most iconic wall-crawler at the center?
Tom Holland’s Spider-Man Might Be The Biggest Mystery In ‘Avengers: Secret Wars’
For years, Marvel Studios has built its saga around crossovers that unite its heroes against impossible odds. ‘Infinity War’ and ‘Endgame’ became global phenomena in large part because they featured everyone, from Tony Stark to T’Challa to Peter Parker, standing side by side. Spider-Man was more than just a background player in those films; he was an emotional anchor.
Related: Watch: Tom Holland’s ‘Spider-Man: Brand New Day’ Set Video Shows A First-Ever Marvel Moment
His disintegration and Tony Stark’s fatherly sacrifice to save him in ‘Endgame’ remain among the MCU’s most unforgettable moments. So, if ‘Secret Wars’ is being pitched as the culmination of the Multiverse Saga, it’s hard to imagine Marvel sidelining a character who means so much to audiences. Yet, the fact that Tom Holland wasn’t listed in the initial ‘Avengers: Doomsday’ cast and that he now admits uncertainty about his future hints at behind-the-scenes complications.
Some of these may be contractual. Sony still owns Spider-Man’s film rights, which has long complicated Marvel Studios’ ability to use the character freely. While the studios have maintained a healthy collaboration, any renegotiation could delay or limit Spider-Man’s role. Another possibility lies in Marvel’s storytelling itself. ‘Brand New Day’ could represent not just a new chapter for Peter Parker, but the setup for a transition.
Fans have speculated for years that Miles Morales would eventually join the MCU, and ‘Secret Wars’ could be the perfect launchpad. In fact, comic readers know that ‘Secret Wars’ played a key role in integrating Miles into mainstream Marvel continuity. Could the films be preparing for a similar passing of the torch?
Spider-Man’s Role In ‘Avengers: Secret Wars’ Could Redefine MCU’s Next Era
While Holland’s comments to Ladbible about “not knowing what’s next” may sound discouraging on the surface, they could also reflect Marvel Studios’ emphasis on secrecy. Actors are often kept in the dark about long-term developments until contracts are finalized. This would be especially true when it comes to game-changing events like ‘Secret Wars’. Still, his tone suggests a reality worth considering: Spider-Man’s MCU journey might not extend indefinitely.
In case you missed it: Tom Holland Opens Up About His Marvel Future After ‘Spider-Man: Brand New Day’
Holland has previously expressed interest in eventually handing the mantle to a successor. He wanted his character to do for others what Tony Stark did for him. If ‘Brand New Day’ introduces Miles Morales, or at least teases his existence, the MCU could use ‘Secret Wars’ as the big stage to unite both Spider-Men. This approach would align beautifully with Marvel’s broader theme of legacy.
Just as ‘Endgame‘ passed the torch from Iron Man and Captain America to a new generation, ‘Secret Wars’ could do the same for Spider-Man. That doesn’t necessarily mean Holland’s Peter Parker is finished. However, it does suggest his story may shift from center stage to mentor status. Another layer to consider is the sheer unpredictability of ‘Secret Wars’.
