In a recent interview, Tom Hardy reignited hopes for a crossover between his character Venom and Spider-Man, played by Tom Holland. Initially, Hardy suggested that such a collaboration had been dismissed, but he later clarified that people may have exaggerated the situation. “I would have loved to work with Spider-Man, but that never happened, which is a fact,” Hardy stated. “It’s a shame because my kids would have loved to see Venom and Spider-Man together.”
Hardy’s comments come in the wake of a post-credit scene in 2021’s Venom: Let There Be Carnage, where Eddie Brock, portrayed by Hardy, was briefly transported to the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU). This scene hinted at a potential encounter between Venom and Spider-Man, sparking excitement among fans. However, when Holland’s Spider-Man made an appearance in Spider-Man: No Way Home, Venom was not included, leading to disappointment.
Reflecting on the missed opportunity, Hardy expressed his desire for a crossover, emphasizing its significance for younger audiences. “Fundamentally, for me, it would be for the kids,” he explained. “As much as adults love superhero films, I think I'm constantly reminded by children how important these characters are. And they don’t know why their favorite characters aren’t in films together.”
Despite the enthusiasm, Hardy acknowledged the creative limitations imposed on the Venom franchise, which may have hindered the crossover. He noted, “We were given a set of limits, and we were really privileged to be able to play with such a beloved IP as Venom in a way that we were allowed. In that respect, we did what we could and what we loved doing.”
As the franchise moves forward, Hardy confirmed that Venom: The Last Dance, set to be released in 2024, will be the final installment in the Venom series. However, he hinted that it might not be the last time he portrays the character. “I feel like a sense of obligation and responsibility and duty of care to those two that will never end,” he said, referring to Eddie Brock and Venom.
Meanwhile, the anticipation for Spider-Man 4, scheduled to premiere on July 31, 2026, continues to grow. Recent reports suggest that the film may introduce iconic characters from Spider-Man's universe. A casting call for the upcoming sequel is looking for a resourceful character in their twenties and a mature villain described as an authority figure. Speculation is rife that these roles could potentially belong to Norman and Harry Osborn, who have been notably absent from the current cinematic universe.
Additionally, actress Sadie Sink, known for her role in Stranger Things, has been rumored to join the cast. While there is speculation that she may portray Mary Jane, Sink has remained cryptic about her involvement, stating, “That’s news to me. I have nothing to say about that. But the rumors are very cool.” In another twist, there are whispers that she could also take on the role of Jean Grey, a character typically associated with the X-Men.
Tom Holland, who continues to play Spider-Man, recently commented on the upcoming film, assuring fans that the best professionals are working on the project. “We have the best professionals working for whatever the story is,” Holland said. “But until we have that figured out, we have a legacy to protect.”
The success of Spider-Man: No Way Home, which grossed an impressive $1.9 billion worldwide, has raised expectations for the next installment. The film not only became a box office hit but also solidified Spider-Man’s status as a beloved character in the superhero genre.
As fans eagerly await further developments, the possibility of a Venom and Spider-Man crossover remains a tantalizing prospect. Hardy’s remarks have reignited conversations around the potential for collaboration between the two characters, despite the hurdles posed by studio politics and creative limitations.
The future of both franchises is uncertain, but the excitement surrounding their trajectories continues to capture the imaginations of fans worldwide. With Hardy’s willingness to reprise his role as Venom and Holland’s commitment to Spider-Man, the door remains open for a crossover that many have longed to see.
