Tobey Maguire No Longer Involved in 'Spider-Man' Series

Tue, 12 January 2010 00:08:29 ET

Scrapping 'Spider-Man 4' and planning a reboot to the blockbuster hit, Sony Pictures has decided to replace the 34-year-old actor with possibly someone younger.

It has been confirmed that Tobey Maguire won't be making an appearance in the next "Spider-Man" movie. The 34-year-old actor will no longer put on the spidey suit following Sony Pictures Entertainment's decision in scrapping "Spider-Man 4" and planning a reboot to the franchise.

The new "Spider-Man" movie will focus on the younger life of Peter Parker. With this new take, Maguire is no longer fits for the role and likely to be replaced by someone younger. So far, there is no official statement from Tobey Maguire regarding him being cut out. Joining Maguire in leaving the franchise are director Sam Raimi and lead actress Kirsten Dunst.

Of the new storyline itself, Sony Pictures said in a statement, "Peter Parker is going back to high school when the next 'Spider-Man' hits theaters in the summer of 2012." Amy Pascal, co-chairman of Sony Pictures Entertainment, confirmed the plan, saying they are "very excited about the creative possibilities that come from returning to Peter's roots."

The huge change was made by Sony after it was previously being reported that Raimi had clashes with the studio. Apparently, Raimi was pressured by the studios to meet the film's summer 2012 release date despite having problems with the script, specifically the choice of villain for the fourth film. Afterwards, Raimi decided to leave the project, and the studios, instead of replacing him, decided to go with a reboot.

The newly rebooted Spider-Man chapter is scheduled to hit theaters in summer 2012. Sony Pictures Entertainment has been reportedly preparing for production and soon will start looking for new director and cast. Once it is established, the new cast and crew will work using a script by "Zodiac" writer James Vanderbilt.

« Older

Newer »