Sony Pictures is hitting the reset button on its shared Spider-Man Universe (SSU) following a string of critical and commercial misfires. After missteps including Morbius (2022), Madame Web (2024), and Kraven the Hunter (2024), the studio is retooling its approach, promising a “fresh reboot” with new talent, according to Sony chairman Tom Rothman.
Speaking on The Town podcast (via The Hollywood Reporter), Sony chairman and CEO Tom Rothman addressed the franchise’s direction. When asked, “Where are we in the Spider-Man franchise? Not the animated Spider-Verse. Is the larger Spider-Verse dead?”, Rothman responded that the series would receive a “fresh reboot” with “new people.”
The SSU initially launched with Venom (2018), which introduced Eddie Brock (Tom Hardy) and his symbiote. While the Venom films collectively grossed $1.84 billion worldwide, audience and critical reception were mixed at best.
Subsequent spinoffs failed to land, leaving the franchise in an uncertain position. A fourth Venom installment is in development as a fully animated feature, though Hardy’s involvement remains unclear. The reboot could mark the start of a new era for Sony’s shared universe, possibly including a new Spider-Man.
Related: Sony and Marvel Scrap Long-Gestating ‘Spider-Man' Spinoff: Report : Disney Fanatic
Tom Holland and the MCU Spider-Man
While Sony reboots its spinoffs, Tom Holland remains the MCU’s Spider-Man. His next solo adventure, Spider-Man: Brand New Day, hits theaters on July 31.
Directed by Destin Daniel Cretton with a script by Chris McKenna and Erik Sommers, the film picks up four years after No Way Home (2021), with Peter Parker stepping back from the spotlight while Spider-Man continues protecting New York. Watch the teaser below:
The film reunites Holland with Zendaya (MJ) and Jacob Batalon (Ned Leeds), alongside Sadie Sink in an undisclosed role, while Jon Bernthal and Mark Ruffalo reprise their roles as Frank Castle/The Punisher and Bruce Banner/The Hulk, respectively.
Spider-Verse Continues
Beyond Holland’s solo story, the Spider-Verse is also expanding on the animated front. Sony’s Spider-Verse threequel is underway, continuing the adventures of Miles Morales and exploring new dimensions of the Multiverse.
With both live-action and animated projects in motion, Spider-Man’s cinematic presence remains strong even as Sony rebuilds its spinoff universe.
Do you think Sony should reset the SSU or give up altogether? Share your thoughts with us in the comments!
