Peter Parker’s departure from the MCU was likely the topic on everyone’s mind at the Keystone Comic Con over the weekend. According to attendees who were there, however, that’s the one subject they were told not to talk about. Before Spider-Man actor Tom Holland’s appearance at the Philadelphia convention, those in charge instructed the audience to steer clear of the elephant in the room.
While this must’ve been disappointing to those guests, the reason why is definitely intriguing. Keystone Comic Con told the 2,000 people in the room to avoid talking about Sony and Disney’s split because “it might mess up any contract discussions that will be announced within the next few days.”
This is good news, as it means that the two sides could still be negotiating and getting ready to reveal a new deal. Marvel Studios president Kevin Feige has reportedly been pushing for his parent company to bring back the web-head, but it doesn’t sound like either party is close to reaching an agreement as of right now. The fact that they’re continuing to talk is at least a step in the right direction though for the many fans who want Spider-Man back in the MCU.
The panel, meanwhile, started off immediately with one of the hosts asking Holland if he’ll return as Peter Parker, to which he responded in the affirmative. The irony that this query was posed right after the room was told not to broach the subject wasn’t lost on the guests, one of whom called the star’s answer “so scripted.” In a somewhat confounding move, the attendees themselves were never given the opportunity to ask the actor questions.
The matter is clearly a sensitive issue for all involved and nothing appears to be set in stone as of yet. While Disney and Sony continue to negotiate though, it’s understandable that no one wants to step on any toes. At least, not until everything’s sorted out with Spider-Man and his cinematic future.