Bella Ramsey as SPIDER-MAN?! This Could CHANGE the MCU Forever!

🚨 HOLD THE PHONE! Did The Last of Us star Bella Ramsey just throw their hat in the ring to play Spider-Man?! 🕸️ Their jaw-dropping comment has sent shockwaves through the fandom, with some screaming “YES!” and others… well, let’s just say they’re not ready to let go of Tom Holland yet. 😅 Is this a bold new vision for Marvel’s web-slinger, or just a playful tease that’s got us all spiraling? 🤔 One thing’s for sure: the MCU could be on the verge of something epic. Tap the link to dive into the full scoop, uncover what Bella really meant, and join the debate that’s lighting up the internet! 👀

The Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) has been a cultural juggernaut for over a decade, redefining superhero storytelling with its interconnected narratives and iconic characters. Among these, Spider-Man remains one of the most beloved, with Tom Holland’s portrayal cementing the web-slinger as a cornerstone of the franchise. However, a recent comment by Bella Ramsey, the Emmy-nominated star of The Last of Us and Game of Thrones, has sparked a wildfire of speculation: could Ramsey be the next Spider-Man? In an interview with Variety on August 17, 2025, Ramsey playfully suggested they could take on the role, while praising Holland’s performance and hinting that Marvel might need to create a new superhero for them. This article delves into the context of Ramsey’s statement, the fan reactions, the potential for their inclusion in the MCU, and what this means for the future of Marvel’s storytelling.

The Context of Ramsey’s Comment

Bella Ramsey, a 21-year-old British actor known for their roles as Lyanna Mormont in Game of Thrones and Ellie in The Last of Us, is no stranger to commanding the screen. Their recent comment came during an HBO Emmys nominees event, where Variety’s Marc Malkin asked if Ramsey had spoken to their Last of Us co-star Pedro Pascal about joining the MCU, given Pascal’s upcoming role as Reed Richards in The Fantastic Four: First Steps. Ramsey’s response was lighthearted: “I don’t know about that. I could be Spider-Man. Tom Holland did a great job, though. So maybe they do need to make a new [superhero] for me.” They also revealed they’re new to superhero films, having only recently watched Andrew Garfield’s The Amazing Spider-Man, which they described as “incredible”.

The comment, while clearly tongue-in-cheek, ignited a firestorm online. Ramsey’s non-binary identity and their rising star power added fuel to the debate, with fans and critics alike weighing in on whether they could—or should—play Spider-Man or another Marvel character. The MCU’s multiverse framework, popularized by films like Spider-Man: No Way Home and the animated Spider-Verse series, has opened the door to diverse interpretations of iconic characters. Could Ramsey’s quip signal a new direction for Marvel, or is it merely a playful moment blown out of proportion by an eager press?

Fan Reactions: A Divided Fandom

The internet’s response to Ramsey’s comment was swift and polarized, reflecting broader tensions in fandom culture. According to a summary by Cosmic Book News, approximately 60-65% of reactions on X were negative, with many fans arguing that Spider-Man is “inherently male” and mocking the idea with terms like “Spider-They”. Posts like “Because Bella Ramsey shouldn’t be Spider-Man, it’s ‘MAN’. Bella is a ‘GIRL’” and hashtags like #SaveSpiderMan underscored a resistance to non-traditional casting, often tied to Ramsey’s non-binary identity. Some critics expressed concern that such a casting choice could “destroy” Marvel’s reputation or lead to a box-office flop, citing the MCU’s recent struggles with audience fatigue.

On the other hand, 20-25% of fans supported Ramsey, emphasizing their acting prowess and the Spider-Verse’s inclusive ethos that “anyone can wear the mask”. Supporters pointed to Ramsey’s ability to portray complex, emotionally resonant characters like Ellie, arguing they could bring a fresh perspective to a Spider-Person variant. Some even suggested Ramsey could play existing characters like Spider-Gwen, Silk, or May “Mayday” Parker, leveraging the multiverse to introduce a non-binary Spider-hero. Others found humor in the idea, with one fan tweeting, “Do it. Make Bella Ramsey the next Spider-Man. It would be the funniest movie ever”. The remaining 15% of reactions were neutral or humorous, often poking fun at the internet’s tendency to overreact to offhand comments.

This split reflects a broader cultural debate about representation in media. While some fans embrace diverse casting as a way to reflect modern audiences, others cling to traditional interpretations of characters like Peter Parker. Ramsey’s comment, though not a serious campaign, has become a lightning rod for these discussions, highlighting the challenges Marvel faces in balancing innovation with fan expectations.

Could Bella Ramsey Join the MCU?

While Ramsey’s Spider-Man comment was likely in jest, their potential to join the MCU is far from absurd. Ramsey’s resume is impressive: their role as Lyanna Mormont showcased their ability to portray fierce, commanding characters, while their portrayal of Ellie in The Last of Us earned them two Emmy nominations for its emotional depth and authenticity. Their voice acting experience in Hilda and their work in diverse projects like Catherine Called Birdy and Time demonstrate a versatility that aligns with Marvel’s casting ethos, which often prioritizes talent over strict adherence to source material.

The MCU’s multiverse provides ample opportunities for Ramsey to join as a Spider-Person or another character. The animated Spider-Verse films, including Spider-Man: Beyond the Spider-Verse (set for release in 2027), have introduced countless variants like Miles Morales, Spider-Gwen, and Spider-Punk, proving that Spider-Man’s identity is not limited to Peter Parker. Ramsey’s background in voice acting makes them a strong candidate for an animated role, perhaps in spin-offs like Spider-Women or Spider-Punk. Alternatively, the MCU’s upcoming X-Men reboot, rumored to feature younger mutants, could see Ramsey as Kitty Pryde, Rogue, or Morph, characters whose emotional complexity aligns with Ramsey’s strengths. Heroic Hollywood and fan discussions have already pegged Ramsey as a “perfect fit” for Kitty Pryde, citing their ability to balance grit and vulnerability.

Another possibility is a new superhero created specifically for Ramsey, as they suggested in their interview. Marvel has a history of introducing original characters, like Yelena Belova in Black Widow, to great success. Given Ramsey’s rising popularity and their chemistry with Pedro Pascal, a new character could anchor a project like the heist movie Ramsey jokingly proposed, potentially tying into Pascal’s Reed Richards storyline. However, any casting decision would need to navigate the MCU’s current challenges, including audience fatigue and the need to refresh the franchise post-Avengers: Secret Wars.

The MCU’s Current Landscape

The MCU is at a crossroads in 2025. While Spider-Man: Brand New Day (set for July 2026) continues Tom Holland’s journey as Peter Parker, with returning cast members like Zendaya and newcomers like Sadie Sink, the franchise is grappling with mixed reception to recent projects. The multiverse saga has expanded storytelling possibilities but also risks overwhelming audiences with complex narratives and endless variants. Ramsey’s potential inclusion, whether as a Spider-Person or another hero, could be a bold move to reinvigorate the franchise, especially given their appeal to younger, diverse audiences.

However, the backlash to Ramsey’s comment underscores a challenge Marvel faces: balancing inclusivity with fan expectations. The MCU has faced criticism for “woke” casting decisions, with examples like the backlash to a Black Ariel or a part-Columbian Snow White cited as cautionary tales. Yet, Marvel’s success with characters like Miles Morales and Kamala Khan shows that diverse casting can resonate when handled thoughtfully. Ramsey’s non-binary identity could make their casting a powerful statement of representation, especially at a time when trans and non-binary individuals face increasing scrutiny, as noted by MovieWeb. Stan Lee’s quote that “anyone can imagine themselves under the Spider-Man costume” supports this inclusive vision, suggesting Ramsey could embody the spirit of the character in a new way.

The Broader Implications

Ramsey’s comment, though playful, taps into a larger conversation about the evolution of superhero storytelling. The MCU has thrived by adapting to cultural shifts, from introducing Black Panther to embracing female-led stories like Captain Marvel. Casting a non-binary actor like Ramsey in a prominent role could further this trend, signaling Marvel’s commitment to reflecting its diverse audience. However, it would require careful execution to avoid alienating fans who prioritize fidelity to the comics.

The fan backlash also highlights the toxic undercurrents in some corners of fandom, where resistance to change often masks discomfort with diversity. Ramsey has faced similar criticism for their role as Ellie in The Last of Us, with some fans arguing they don’t resemble the game character closely enough. Pedro Pascal’s public support for Ramsey during this controversy suggests they have allies in the industry, which could bolster their case for an MCU role. Moreover, the success of The Last of Us, with 17 Emmy nominations, proves Ramsey’s ability to win over audiences and critics alike, even in the face of initial skepticism.

What’s Next for Ramsey and the MCU?

While Ramsey is unlikely to replace Tom Holland as Spider-Man, their comment has sparked valuable discussion about the future of the MCU. The upcoming X-Men reboot, expected post-Avengers: Secret Wars, offers a prime opportunity for Ramsey to join as a mutant like Kitty Pryde or Rogue, roles that align with their proven ability to portray complex, emotionally driven characters. Alternatively, the Spider-Verse animated films could provide a platform for Ramsey to voice a new Spider-Person, leveraging their voice acting experience and the multiverse’s flexibility.

Marvel could also take Ramsey’s suggestion to create a new superhero, crafting a character that reflects their unique persona and appeals to a new generation of fans. This approach would sidestep the backlash tied to recasting Spider-Man while capitalizing on Ramsey’s star power. A heist-style project with Pedro Pascal, as Ramsey proposed, could be a fresh addition to the MCU, blending humor, action, and their undeniable chemistry.

Conclusion

Bella Ramsey’s playful comment about playing Spider-Man has ignited a passionate debate, revealing both the potential and the challenges of diversifying the MCU. While their casting as Spider-Man is improbable given Tom Holland’s ongoing tenure, Ramsey’s talent and rising profile make them a strong candidate for other Marvel roles, from X-Men mutants to animated Spider-People or an original hero. The fan reactions, ranging from enthusiastic support to vehement opposition, reflect the broader cultural dynamics at play in superhero fandom. As the MCU navigates its next phase, Ramsey’s potential inclusion could be a bold step toward inclusivity, provided Marvel balances innovation with respect for its audience. For now, Ramsey remains focused on The Last of Us and their Emmy-nominated career, but their quip has planted a seed: could they one day swing into the MCU, mask and all? Only time—and Marvel’s casting decisions—will tell.