For several weeks back in August, moviegoers were under the impression that the Marvel Cinematic Universe had seen the last of Spider-Man, due to a dispute between Sony Pictures and Disney. The web-head will continue to appear in future MCU films, as that dispute was swiftly resolved, thanks in part to actor Tom Holland.
In a recent roundtable discussion, Sony chairman Tom Rothman and Disney CCO Alan Horn revealed that there was another important factor that guided discussions: the fans.
"They like the fact that the Marvel Cinematic Universe and Kevin Feige were involved [in the two Spider-Man films]," Horn explained. "We heard feedback out there that suggested that joining forces once again was probably really a good idea."
"This was a classic win-win-win. A win for Sony, a win for Disney, a win for the fans," Rothman added.
The Sony exec then shifted attention to the response from media outlets. "The only thing I would say is that news cycles and the rhythm of negotiations do not necessarily overlap," he explained, going on to clarify that the response that resulted from reports about the matter didn't necessarily impact dealings between the two studios. "This is, in the words of Shakespeare, a consummation devoutly to be wished. We would have gotten there, and the news got ahead of some things."
Sony and Disney will co-produce a third Spider-Man film, announced for the next phase of the MCU. It will complete the current trilogy consisting of Spider-Man: Homecoming and Spider-Man: Far From Home. Tom Holland will reprise the role of Peter Parker. No further details have been announced.