It looks like Marvel Studios owner Disney and Sony Pictures are going their separate ways again, and that would appear to spell the end of Tom Holland and Spider-Man's role in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, Deadline reports.
The beef is about money. Disney was reportedly looking to change its current arrangement with Sony, seeking a 50-50 co-financing split on future Spider-Man movies rather than the 5 percent of first-dollar gross it banks at the moment. Negotiations have broken down and the split means that Marvel Studios president Kevin Feige will not be producing future Spidey films, despite his role in the character's revival from Captain America: Civil War onwards.
In an official statement, Sony said, “Much of today’s news about Spider-Man has mischaracterized recent discussions about Kevin Feige’s involvement in the franchise. We are disappointed, but respect Disney’s decision not to have him continue as a lead producer of our next live action Spider-Man film.
“We hope this might change in the future, but understand that the many new responsibilities that Disney has given him — including all their newly added Marvel properties — do not allow time for him to work on IP they do not own. Kevin is terrific and we are grateful for his help and guidance and appreciate the path he has helped put us on, which we will continue.”
The "newly added Marvel properties" mentioned is likely a reference to the X-Men universe, which Disney acquired the rights to through its purchase of 21st Century Fox in March.
Sony Pictures currently has plans in place for two more Spider-Man movies and hopes to retain the involvement of Holland and director Jon Watts, who helmed both Spider-Man: Homecoming and this year's Spider-Man: Far From Home.
Holland is yet to comment on the situation, but Jeremy Renner, who plays MCU hero Hawkeye, has stepped in to ask Sony for his fellow Avenger back.
