Is Tobey Maguire Returning as Spider-Man? Writer Teases Spider-Man 4 Story with an Older Peter Parker
Is Tobey Maguire Returning in Spider-Man 4?
Two decades after first donning the red-and-blue suit, Tobey Maguire could be preparing for one last swing across the skyline. The internet is buzzing with speculation after screenwriter Mattson Tomlin—known for his work on The Batman: Part II—hinted that he’s interested in writing Spider-Man 4 centered around Maguire’s version of Peter Parker.
Maguire, who defined a generation of superhero fans with Sam Raimi’s Spider-Man trilogy (2002–2007), recently reprised his role in Spider-Man: No Way Home (2021). That nostalgic appearance reignited fan hopes for a continuation of his story—and Tomlin’s comments have added fresh fuel to the fire.
What the Writer Said
The buzz started when Tomlin responded to a fan on X (formerly Twitter) asking about his dream Spider-Man project. His reply was simple but explosive for fans:
“Honestly, right now my main interest would be to write a Spider-Man 4 where Tobey’s Spider-Man is juggling being a husband and a father.”
He added that exploring an older Peter Parker appeals to him more than retreading familiar ground:
“Spider-Man as a father is where I gravitate towards given the last eight films.”
That idea—an experienced superhero balancing parenthood and responsibility—has instantly captured fan imaginations. It could bring emotional depth and maturity to the character while staying true to the themes that made Maguire’s Spider-Man so relatable.
A Story Fans Have Been Waiting For
The concept of an older, family-oriented Peter Parker isn’t new, but seeing it with Tobey Maguire’s version could be powerful. His Peter always carried the weight of responsibility and loss, and exploring how he handles that as a father could offer a heartfelt and grounded continuation of his story.
After No Way Home, where Maguire appeared alongside Andrew Garfield and Tom Holland, fans began campaigning for a Spider-Man 4—either continuing Sam Raimi’s trilogy or creating a standalone movie within the Spider-Verse. Many see Tomlin’s comments as the clearest spark of hope yet that such a project could actually happen.
What Mattson Tomlin Said About the Possibility
When asked if any official progress had been made on Spider-Man 4, Tomlin responded cautiously:
“Slow and steady wins the race… There won’t be anything to say about that for a long time (if ever!) because it involves a lot of people and politics and things going right that have nothing to do with me, but I haven’t gotten a ‘no’ yet!”
His statement doesn’t confirm anything, but it does suggest that the idea isn’t off the table. Hollywood projects like this often hinge on studio approvals, schedules, and rights agreements—especially since multiple studios (Sony and Marvel) share Spider-Man’s film rights.
The Return of Tobey Maguire: What It Would Mean
Tobey Maguire’s version of Spider-Man remains beloved for his sincerity and emotional storytelling. Unlike later versions, Maguire’s Peter Parker embodied vulnerability and heart, struggling with identity and morality as much as villains.
A new film exploring his life as a husband and father could bring a fresh angle to the character—something that resonates with the audience that grew up watching him. It could also connect naturally to the multiverse storyline established in No Way Home, where older heroes coexist with younger versions of themselves.
Fans have even speculated that Maguire’s Peter could mentor a younger hero—perhaps Miles Morales or a grown-up version of his own child inheriting the Spider-Man mantle.
What About Tom Holland’s Spider-Man?
While Tobey’s potential return is exciting, the Spider-Verse continues in the Marvel Cinematic Universe with Tom Holland. The actor is set to return in Spider-Man: Brand New Day, releasing on July 31, 2026.
Holland described the upcoming film as a “fresh start” for his Peter Parker after the dramatic conclusion of No Way Home. Zendaya is also expected to return as MJ, and the story is rumored to explore the challenges of Peter rebuilding his life in secret after the world forgets his identity.
With the MCU exploring the multiverse, there’s always a possibility of Maguire and Holland crossing paths again—especially with Marvel’s upcoming Avengers: Secret Wars expected to unite characters from across timelines.
What’s Next for Mattson Tomlin
While fans dream of Spider-Man 4, Mattson Tomlin is keeping busy with other major projects. He’s currently working on The Batman: Part II, starring Robert Pattinson, which is slated for release in October 2027.
Tomlin’s background in dark, character-driven storytelling makes him an intriguing choice for a Tobey Maguire-led Spider-Man story. His approach to morally complex heroes could fit perfectly with an older, more introspective Peter Parker.
The Verdict: Will Spider-Man 4 Happen?
For now, there’s no official confirmation from Tobey Maguire, Sam Raimi, Sony, or Marvel about Spider-Man 4. But Tomlin’s comments have reignited a conversation that never really died among fans.
Given the ongoing success of multiverse storytelling, and the continued affection audiences have for Maguire’s version of the character, a comeback feels more possible than ever. If it does happen, Spider-Man 4 could explore a Peter Parker who’s older, wiser, and still learning that with great power comes great responsibility—both as a hero and a father.
Until then, fans will keep hoping—and watching the skies for one more swing.