Marvel Announces New Spider-Man Candidate
As major changes approach the Marvel Cinematic Universe, Spider-Man remains a crucial part of this transformation. As Peter Parker’s story matures, Marvel Studios has gradually begun to highlight a new Spider-Man candidate. However, this isn’t the long-awaited Miles Morales, but rather another, familiar figure to comic book fans.
Marvel’s New Candidate: Scarlet Spider, Aka Ben Reilly
Recent statements from Marvel Studios President Kevin Feige have clarified that Miles Morales won’t be making his live-action debut in the near future. Sony doesn’t want the character to appear in the MCU until the animated trilogy is complete. This has led Marvel to take a different direction, and all eyes have turned to Ben Reilly. Known as the Scarlet Spider, he stands out for both his tragic past and his heroic nature.
Although Ben Reilly was created as a clone of Peter Parker, he gradually becomes an independent Spider-Man, carving out his own path. His role as Peter’s replacement during his retirement demonstrates the character’s potential. The groundwork for this transition within the MCU could be gradually laid. The upcoming Spider-Man: Brand New Day, in which Frank Castle and Peter meet Reilly’s co-creator, Miles Warren, could be a first step in this direction.
While this move bears resemblance to the Spider-Verse, it’s seen as a sign that Marvel is preparing for a brand new era of Spider-Man in its own cinematic universe. While Ben Reilly is a somewhat darker character, he could be a breath of fresh air within the MCU’s dynamics. Considering he has much to learn from Peter Parker, it seems likely that the character will gradually enter the scene.
Spider-Man: Brand New Day will hit theaters on July 31, 2026. The film’s story could leave its mark not only with Frank Castle’s involvement but also by laying the groundwork for new characters. The time for a new Spider-hero to carry the weight of the MCU after Tom Holland may be slowly coming.
