How the MCU Set Up a Future Spider-Man Problem 8 Years Prior and My Proposed Solution

In the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), Spider-Man: Homecoming marked a pivotal moment for Peter Parker, introducing significant changes that could have lasting implications for Miles Morales. Tom Holland’s portrayal of Spider-Man reached a major milestone in Spider-Man: No Way Home, which not only concluded a significant chapter in Peter’s life but also set him on a quest for reinvention. As fans anticipate Spider-Man 4, this new installment promises to depict Peter Parker reestablishing his life, forming new connections in the process.

The excitement surrounding Miles Morales’ impending live-action introduction has been amplified due to his immense popularity in comic books and the tremendous success of Sony’s Spider-Verse films. Typically viewed as the successor to Peter Parker, it’s likely that Holland’s Spider-Man will assume the role of mentor to Morales, mirroring the guidance that Iron Man provided to Peter in previous films. Nevertheless, formal announcements regarding Miles’ debut remain absent, with the only reference to his character coming from his uncle Aaron Davis in Spider-Man: Homecoming.

The Shift in Best Friend Dynamics for Miles Morales

The MCU’s Ned Leeds: A Take on Ganke Lee

Jacob Batalon's Ned Leeds reacts to Spider-Man's real identity alongside Ganke Lee and Miles Morales — Image by Nicolas Ayala

In Spider-Man: Homecoming, audiences were introduced to a roster of characters surrounding Peter Parker, including MJ, Flash Thompson, and Ned Leeds. Notably, Ned shares characteristics with Miles Morales’ best friend, Ganke Lee, reflecting similar physical traits and personality. Over the course of the series, Ned has become a staple within Peter’s narrative, and with the conclusion of Spider-Man: No Way Home, the nature of their friendship could face new challenges. This, unfortunately, implies that Miles Morales may never establish a friendship with Ganke Lee as depicted in the comics.

In the original comics, Ned Leeds has a vastly different backstory, portraying a reporter entangled in conflict and intrigue surrounding the Hobgoblin. When the day comes for Miles Morales to enter the MCU, it’s plausible that he will have a different best friend—whether they are an entirely new character or a reinterpretation from the comics. However, there remains a possibility that the MCU could diverge by introducing a distinctive friendship for Miles that does not rely on Ned Leeds.

Reinventing Friendship Dynamics in the MCU

A Refresh of Friend Groups for Miles and Peter

Miles Morales using spider-sense alongside Peter Parker in the Iron Spider suit — Image by Ollie Bradley

With well-established relationships with MJ and Ned, the MCU has set a solid foundation for Peter Parker’s social circle. Regardless of Peter’s path moving forward, no individual is likely to forge the same level of closeness with him as these two. To cultivate a distinctive identity for Miles Morales, the MCU could explore underutilized characters such as Harry Osborn and Gwen Stacy, offering fresh narratives that distinguish Miles’ journey from Peter’s.Harry Osborn, in particular, could emerge as an innovative alternative to Ganke Lee upon Miles’ introduction.

By positioning Harry Osborn as Miles’ confidant, the MCU could reframe his character in exciting new ways that set him apart from previous depictions. The intricate dynamics of Harry’s relationship with Peter—historically marked by rivalry and friendship—could provide ample narrative depth. Furthermore, Harry’s story could offer innovative paths, possibly including a reimagined portrayal of his father, Norman Osborn, framing them as potential adversaries for Miles Morales in future installments.

The Necessity of Harry and Norman Osborn in the MCU

Essential Characters in Spider-Man’s Legacy

The MCU has ventured into storytelling spaces surrounding Peter Parker that previous adaptations did not explore, especially evident in Spider-Man: No Way Home, where Peter confronted the Green Goblin. However, the absence of Norman and Harry Osborn from the MCU leaves a notable gap given their deep-rooted ties to the Spider-Man lore.Introducing these characters would not only enrich the narrative but also pay homage to their profound history.

Norman Osborn’s multifaceted character—encompassing villainy, corporate machinations, and his habit of crossing paths with secret organizations—presents dynamic storytelling opportunities ripe for adaptation. Likewise, Harry’s tumultuous relationships and potential transformations into a villain could serve as compelling narratives that guide Miles Morales and/or Peter Parker’s journeys. Recent interpretations in projects like Your Friendly Neighborhood Spider-Man demonstrate that both characters can be reimagined creatively, offering rich potential for their roles in the MCU.

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