Tom Holland Is Looking Forward to ‘Setting Up the Next Chapter’ For a New ‘Spider-Man’ Star: ‘I Could Do What Downey Did For Me’

Tom Holland has signalled his readiness to step back from the role that defined a generation, telling *Empire* magazine he is eager to help usher in the next era of Spider-Man in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. The British actor, who has portrayed the web-slinger since 2016, said he wants to play a part in transitioning the franchise to a new lead, whether that be Miles Morales, Spider-Gwen, or another character. “For whoever’s next… I would love to be a part of setting up the next chapter,” he told the publication, drawing a parallel with Robert Downey Jr.’s mentorship of younger stars during the early phases of the MCU.

The comments come at a pivotal moment for the Spider-Man franchise, which has become a cornerstone of Marvel Studios’ multibillion-dollar cinematic universe. Holland’s departure would mark the end of one of the most commercially successful and culturally resonant character arcs in modern superhero cinema, with films like *Spider-Man: No Way Home* (2021) grossing over $1.9 billion worldwide. The actor’s willingness to facilitate a handover reflects a maturity rare in an industry often defined by long-running lead commitments, and mirrors the approach taken by industry veterans such as Downey, whose mentorship of Chris Evans and Chris Hemsworth helped sustain the Avengers brand across multiple films.

Recent industry trends suggest a generational shift is underway in Hollywood, with studios increasingly seeking to refresh franchises with diverse and younger talent. Sony Pictures, which co-produces the Spider-Man films with Marvel Studios, has already expanded the mythology through animated features like *Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse* (2018), introducing audiences to alternate Spider-People. With Disney and Sony reportedly negotiating future Spider-Man projects, Holland’s offer to support a successor could ease concerns about continuity and fan investment during a transition that risks alienating long-time audiences.

His remarks also carry symbolic weight at a time when representation in blockbuster cinema is under scrutiny. A new Spider-Man from an underrepresented background—such as Miles Morales, a Black-Latino teenager who has starred in animated films—could broaden the franchise’s appeal and align with evolving audience expectations. Holland’s stated intention to “do what Downey did for me” implies a commitment to legacy-building, positioning the next chapter not as an ending, but as an opportunity to evolve the character for new generations while honouring its past.