In a surprising revelation, Sony Pictures has confirmed long-standing rumors about Tom Holland’s MCU Spider-Man potentially making a cameo appearance in Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse. While the sequel delighted fans with appearances by Andrew Garfield and Tobey Maguire’s Spider-Men, Peter Parker from the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) was noticeably absent. Now, details about a deleted scene featuring Tom Holland’s Spider-Man have emerged.
The Missing MCU Spider-Man Cameo
Before Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse hit theaters, speculation was rife about whether Tom Holland’s Spider-Man would join the multiverse-spanning adventure. Fans eagerly anticipated seeing all three live-action Spider-Men on screen together. While the film delivered on two counts, the MCU’s Peter Parker remained conspicuously absent.
Revealing the Deleted Scene
The recently unveiled Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse: The Official Movie Special Book offers a glimpse into what could have been. Concept art from the deleted scene reveals a cute and chibi version of Tom Holland’s Spider-Man sporting the black and red Upgraded Suit from Spider-Man: Far From Home.
This cameo would have added a unique twist to the growing Spider-Verse, reminiscent of other lighthearted appearances like Spectacular Spider-Man or the portrayal in Insomniac’s video game adaptation. Though quick and seemingly inconsequential, it would have further solidified the interconnected web of Spider-People.
Chibi Charm and a Familiar Style
The chibi style showcased in the concept art bears a resemblance to the dancing Andrew Garfield’s Spider-Man featured in a 2014 Evian advertisement. It’s a playful take on the character, showcasing the flexibility of Spider-Man’s appearances across different media.
Future Possibilities
The connection between the animated Spider-Verse and the live-action MCU has already been hinted at with Donald Glover’s Prowler cameo in Spider-Verse 2. While the multiverse is expansive, this marked the first tangible link between the two universes, potentially paving the way for a live-action Miles Morales in the future.
With Spider-Man: Beyond the Spider-Verse on the horizon, which is described as the conclusion to the story initiated in 2018, Sony Pictures Animation may have more surprises in store. Fans have shown openness to cameos, as long as the heart of the story remains focused on the original characters like Miles Morales, Gwen Stacy, and Peter B. Parker.
While Tom Holland‘s Spider-Man was absent from Spider-Verse 2, the concept art of his deleted cameo offers a glimpse into what could have been a delightful addition to the Spider-Verse’s diverse lineup. As the multiverse continues to expand, the possibilities of further interconnections between the MCU and the animated Spider-Verse remain intriguing for fans. Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse is now available for online purchase, leaving fans eagerly awaiting the next installment in this web-slinging saga.