The upcoming Spider-Noir series is set to redefine Spider-Man for television. Premiering on MGM+ in the U.S. and Prime Video internationally on May 25, 2026, the show has received an official TV-14 rating, making it the most mature Spider-Man series to date. This represents a significant departure from the franchise’s usual family-friendly tone.
With its darker, more intricate storylines, Spider-Noir promises to explore the psychological depths of a superhero often seen only in bright, action-packed adventures. Moreover, fans can expect a series that balances intense drama with character-driven storytelling, thereby setting a new benchmark for Marvel-related TV projects.
Spider-Noir: A Mature Spin on the Spider-Verse
Unlike previous Spider-Man series, Spider-Noir delves into more serious themes such as personal trauma, moral dilemmas, and societal issues. The show addresses psychological struggles, violence, and references to alcoholism while maintaining a TV-14 rating—carefully walking the line between mature storytelling and accessibility for older teens and adults.
Moreover, the series expands on the Spider-Verse universe by bringing beloved characters into a live-action noir setting, making the narrative more immersive for long-time fans and new viewers alike. The combination of suspense, action, and character depth ensures a gripping experience from the first episode.
A Look Back at Spider-Man TV Ratings
Spider-Man television history has largely been aimed at younger audiences. Here’s a quick overview:
- The Amazing Spider-Man (1977): TV-PG
- Spider-Man and His Amazing Friends (1981): TV-Y7
- Spider-Man (1994–1998): TV-Y
- Spider-Man: Unlimited (1999–2005): TV-Y7
- Spider-Man: The New Animated Series (2003): TV-PG
- The Spectacular Spider-Man (2008–2009): TV-Y7
- Ultimate Spider-Man (2012–2017): TV-PG
- Spidey and His Amazing Friends (2021): TV-Y
- Your Friendly Neighborhood Spider-Man (2025): TV-PG
- Spider-Noir (2026): TV-14
As shown, the last live-action Spider-Man TV series, The Amazing Spider-Man from the 1970s, was rated TV-PG. Therefore, Spider-Noir’s TV-14 rating is a significant outlier and highlights its more mature approach. This shift demonstrates Marvel’s willingness to experiment with tone and style, catering to audiences seeking more sophisticated storytelling.
Star-Studded Cast Brings Spider-Noir to Life
The series stars Nicolas Cage reprising his role as Ben Reilly/The Spider in live-action, adding gravitas and experience to the character. Supporting cast members include Lamorne Morris, Li Jun Li, and Brendan Gleeson, each bringing their own nuanced performances that enrich the narrative.
The chemistry among the cast is expected to heighten the emotional stakes, ensuring viewers connect deeply with the characters while navigating the darker, more complex plotlines. Transitioning from animation to live-action with such talent demonstrates Marvel’s commitment to elevating Spider-Man content on TV.
Spider-Noir is not just darker in tone—it also visually stands out. Offering a black-and-white viewing option, the show heavily draws from classic film noir aesthetics. Shadows, low lighting, and dramatic camera angles create a mood that perfectly complements Ben Reilly’s grizzled, detective-style adventures.
The storyline follows Ben Reilly as a private investigator drawn back into his superhero life by a mysterious case, blending crime procedural elements with high-stakes superhero action. The result is a series that feels cinematic, intense, and uniquely Spider-Man, appealing to both casual viewers and dedicated MCU fans.
Why Spider-Noir Is a Game-Changer for Spider-Man on TV
Transitioning Spider-Man to a noir-driven, mature narrative is a bold new direction for the franchise. By combining gripping storytelling, visually striking aesthetics, and morally complex themes, Spider-Noir sets a new benchmark for superhero television series.
The series also opens doors for future MCU projects to explore more experimental tones and narratives on TV. Its willingness to address darker themes without crossing into TV-MA territory shows careful creative planning, appealing to both long-time fans and newcomers.
In conclusion, Spider-Noir is poised to redefine Spider-Man for a new generation. Its unique blend of noir style, mature storytelling, and compelling characters ensures that the franchise continues to evolve in thrilling and unexpected ways, making it one of the most anticipated series of 2026.
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