The MCU’s Spider-Man actor ranks among Marvel’s most iconic casting choices. Yet, another rising star nearly took on the role. Long before Joseph Quinn landed the part of Johnny Storm in Fantastic Four: First Steps, he auditioned to play Peter Parker. At the time, he competed for one of the most sought-after superhero roles in modern cinema.
Joseph Quinn Auditioned to Be the MCU’s Spider-Man Actor
In a surprising reveal, Joseph Quinn shared that he once auditioned for Spider-Man. During a press interview, he joked:
“I was up for Spider-Man. Still waiting to hear.”
At the time, Marvel Studios and Sony were searching for a fresh-faced actor to portray a teenage Peter Parker. They wanted someone who could carry the role across multiple films. Quinn, who was relatively unknown then, gave it his shot. However, the role went to Tom Holland, who went on to redefine the character for a new generation of fans.
Tom Holland Became the Face of the MCU’s Spider-Man Actor
Tom Holland made his debut in Captain America: Civil War (2016). Since then, he has appeared in several MCU blockbusters and three solo Spider-Man films. His version of Peter Parker blends youthful charm, vulnerability, and wit — quickly winning over both critics and audiences. It’s no surprise that Holland is now seen as the definitive MCU’s Spider-Man actor.
However, hearing that Joseph Quinn was once in the mix adds an interesting “what if” scenario to Marvel history.
Joseph Quinn’s MCU Path Took a Fiery Turn
Although he didn’t land the Spider-Man role, Joseph Quinn maintained his connection to Marvel. His casting as Johnny Storm — better known as the Human Torch — signals Marvel Studios’ confidence in his talent and charisma.
Fantastic Four: First Steps will officially bring Marvel’s first family into the MCU. Quinn’s Human Torch will likely be younger and more rebellious, just like his comic book counterpart. Early reports suggest the film may also explore multiverse or science-heavy themes, potentially linking different corners of the MCU — including Spider-Man’s world.
How Close Was Quinn to Becoming Spider-Man?
Although details about Quinn’s audition remain scarce, he clearly made a strong impression. Marvel saw potential in him long before Stranger Things launched him into stardom. Being considered for such a major role highlights the confidence they had in his talent. His rise since then only reinforces that Marvel may have been keeping him in mind for a future role, which they ultimately delivered.
The Future: Human Torch and Spider-Man on the Same Screen?
As the MCU moves deeper into crossover territory, many fans are hoping for Quinn’s Human Torch to interact with Holland — the MCU’s Spider-Man actor. In the comics, their dynamic is one of playful rivalry, mutual respect, and deep friendship. Bringing that to life in the MCU would be a fan-favorite move and a clever nod to long-time Marvel readers.
Given both characters are young, charismatic, and rooted in science-driven stories, a crossover feels inevitable — perhaps in a future Avengers film, or even Secret Wars.
Joseph Quinn’s story shows how Marvel rarely loses sight of promising actors. Even if an actor misses out on one role, Marvel often finds another that suits them better. For example, Gemma Chan appeared in both Captain Marvel and Eternals as different characters. Similarly, Mahershala Ali went from Luke Cage to taking on the lead in Blade.
Quinn’s case fits the pattern — from a potential Spider-Man to a confirmed Human Torch, his journey with Marvel is just beginning.
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