Marvel executives revealed that Spider-Man’s involvement reshaped the Marvel Zombies Series. The project was changed from a planned movie into a four-episode Disney+ series due to character rights shared with Sony. Fans can expect a fresh take on the zombie apocalypse, featuring intense action, clever storytelling, and beloved MCU characters.
How Spider-Man Shaped the Marvel Zombies Series
In a recent interview, Marvel TV head Brad Winderbaum explained the impact of contractual rights with Sony:
“For Spider-Man, we have certain rights to the character, and Sony has other rights to the character. So we can use Spider-Man in a half-hour animation, which is why we’re able to make Your Friendly Neighborhood Spider-Man as well. But that meant that we had to take our big epic story and break it into four chapters, which I actually think helped the storytelling.”
Dividing the Marvel Zombies Series into four chapters allowed for deeper storytelling while keeping the intensity of the zombie apocalypse introduced in What If…? Season 1. The chapter format also gives creators more flexibility to focus on character development, plot twists, and unexpected challenges, keeping fans engaged throughout the series.
Future Seasons and Expanded Character Roster
When asked about potential future seasons, Winderbaum and showrunner Bryan Andrews hinted at exciting expansions:
“In terms of other characters, there are lots of characters that we wanted to include, that we still talk about, you know. And hopefully, if we get a chance to make more, we’ll be able to tell their stories too.”
Andrews added:
“No spoilers because we don’t know. But yes, we have ideas for another thing if we’re able to go there.”
This suggests that the Marvel Zombies Series could continue to grow, incorporating more fan-favorite characters while keeping Spider-Man’s story central to the narrative. The potential for crossovers and new character introductions means the series could become a major MCU staple on Disney+.
Premiere Details and Voice Cast
The Marvel Zombies Series premieres on September 24, 2025, featuring an ensemble voice cast, including Hudson Thames as Spider-Man. The show delivers a darker, more intense take on the zombie apocalypse while keeping the humor and clever writing that Marvel fans enjoy. Its episodic structure also lets each character shine, providing dedicated moments for storytelling, dramatic tension, and unexpected heroic acts. This makes the series both exciting for hardcore MCU fans and accessible to new viewers.
By adapting the Marvel Zombies Series into four episodes, Marvel balances narrative depth with licensing restrictions. The format also opens doors for innovative animated MCU storytelling. Spider-Man’s involvement highlights the importance of character rights. It also showcases Marvel’s creative approach, offering fans thrilling action and clever Easter eggs connected to the broader multiverse.
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