We were waiting for all the facts came out to finally report on this, but yes, the rumors have proved true: Sony has Uncle Benned its relationship with Marvel Studios, letting it die to undoubtedly learn a greater lesson about selflessness.
Sony put out the below press release on the issue, but Deadline‘s inside sources have confirmed that it’s pretty much bullshit. The severance has nothing to do with producer Kevin Feige being too busy and everything to do with—what else?—money. Disney apparently wanted to start getting a 50% cut of the profits for the vastly improved Spider-Man movies Feige was shepherding.
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.
Sony Pictures
Anyway, so while Spider-Man was once free to swing in and out of the Marvel Cinematic Universe, Happy Hogan in tow, that’s now done unless negotiations reopen.
Sorry, Spidey, but you’re probably going to have to be in Venom 2.
