Tom Holland Says Owen Cooper Should Be Spider-Man Successor
Tom Holland named Owen Cooper as a potential successor for the role of Spider-Man during an interview with Esquire. Holland indicated he is open to a “fresh face” taking over the mantle, while he seeks a transition into a mentorship and producing role within the franchise.
Holland is currently preparing for the release of his fourth Spider-Man film. This marks a different trajectory than his predecessors; Tobey Maguire starred in three original Sony movies, while Andrew Garfield led two films, according to the interview.
Who could be the next Spider-Man?
Holland told Esquire that Owen Cooper “would be awesome” for the role, describing the actor as “super-talented” and “the talk of the town.” He suggested that the role could serve as a “great springboard” for a new actor.
Cooper has previously expressed interest in the character. In March 2025, Cooper told i-D magazine, “I want to play Spider-Man.”
The actor gained prominence through his role in the television series Adolescence, which he filmed at age 14. Cooper became the youngest-ever male Emmy winner in any acting category at the 2025 Emmys and the youngest person to win best supporting actor in a TV series at the 2026 Golden Globes. He also became the youngest-ever Actor Awards winner, sweeping all major nominations for his work on the series.
What are Tom Holland’s future goals with the franchise?
Holland expressed a desire to remain involved as a producer, though he admitted to Esquire that obtaining a producing credit on future films is “pretty tough.”
He aims to provide the same level of guidance to a successor that he received early in his career. “In the way that Robert Downey was such a mentor for me in my first three movies, I would love to be that person for whoever is next,” Holland said.
Did Tom Holland and Zendaya get married?
During the Esquire interview, the actor confirmed that he and Zendaya secretly married. The confirmation came while discussing AI-generated images of a wedding in Lake Como, Italy.
Holland noted that his grandmother had worried she was not invited to the nuptials. When asked if other friends or family members were fooled by the fake AI photos, Holland responded, “No, because they were all there.”
What may happen next?
Depending on studio decisions, Owen Cooper could emerge as a primary candidate for the role if the franchise chooses a “fresh face.” Holland may seek to negotiate a producer’s contract to ensure he can mentor the next actor.
The transition of the role could occur following the release of Holland’s upcoming fourth film, as he has already discussed the possibility of walking away from the superhero role.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who did Tom Holland suggest as a replacement for Spider-Man?
Holland suggested Owen Cooper or another fresh face could take over the role.
What records did Owen Cooper break for Adolescence?
Cooper became the youngest-ever male Emmy winner in any acting category (2025), the youngest best supporting actor winner at the Golden Globes (2026), and the youngest-ever Actor Awards winner.
How did Tom Holland confirm his marriage to Zendaya?
While discussing AI photos of a wedding in Lake Como, Holland stated that his family and friends were not fooled by the fake images because they had all attended the actual wedding.
Do you think a new actor like Owen Cooper is the right choice to follow Tom Holland as Spider-Man?