A surprising new image from Empire magazine has revealed Colonel Miles Quaritch and Spider together on screen in James Cameron’s upcoming film Avatar: Fire and Ash, raising questions about their relationship and storyline. Quaritch, the primary antagonist of the original 2009 Avatar, was presumed dead but returned in Avatar: The Way of Water as an avatar. Meanwhile, Spider, a human boy raised by Jake Sully and Neytiri, was revealed to be Quaritch’s son, setting the stage for a complex reunion in the third installment.
This unexpected connection between father and son introduces intriguing narrative possibilities, but it also generates uncertainty about how and why their reunion takes place, especially given their fraught history in the franchise.
How Will Quaritch and Spider’s Reunion Unfold in Avatar: Fire and Ash?
The upcoming Avatar 3 promises to explore the reunion between Quaritch and Spider, but the circumstances remain unclear. Stephen Lang, who portrays Quaritch, discussed their relationship in an interview with Empire, highlighting the complicated nature of their connection. Lang explained,
“They reconnect out of necessity. Their connection is not a solo connection. There are times when everybody comes together on some level. But, when enemies cooperate, you can be sure betrayal is just around the corner.” —Stephen Lang, Actor
“Spider confuses Quaritch. But Quaritch wants clarity. There is something about Spider that Quaritch really loves — not a word we associate with him. I think respect and admiration really develop in spades, as well as animosity and manipulation. The relationship will deepen — for better or worse.” —Stephen Lang, Actor
Despite Spider’s deep integration with the Sully family, symbolized by the Metkayina tattoo he wears in new promotional images, the film suggests that their paths will cross in circumstances charged with tension and emotional complexity. Spider either may be forcibly taken back to Quaritch or might seek out his biological father willingly. Given the Ash clan‘s impending attacks on other Na’vi, shown in new CinemaCon 2025 footage, it is possible the reunion emerges from conflict or infiltration within the Na’vi communities.
How Spider and Quaritch’s Dynamic Reflects Avatar’s Themes of Family and Loyalty
The father–son relationship between Quaritch and Spider is poised to be a central element in Avatar: Fire and Ash, deepening the franchise’s ongoing exploration of family and identity. After Spider was revealed as Quaritch’s son in The Way of Water, his position within the Sully family—or “found family”—added emotional layers to the story about what defines familial bonds.
James Cameron and members of the cast have hinted that the third film will continue to examine these familial themes, highlighting the emotional struggles Spider may face as he confronts his divided loyalties. Whether Spider ultimately aligns with his biological father or remains loyal to the family that raised him will likely inform some of Avatar 3’s most compelling drama, forcing characters to navigate issues of belonging, betrayal, and love.
Could We See a Transformation in Quaritch’s Character in the New Film?
Colonel Quaritch has long been cast as a ruthless antagonist, but his reunion with Spider could reveal a new, more nuanced side to his character. The extended runtime of Avatar: Fire and Ash offers an opportunity to explore Quaritch not only as a villain but also as a conflicted father who struggles with his past actions and relationship with his son.
This could open the door for a redemption arc in Avatar 3 or possibly in future sequels, showcasing a complexity that moves beyond the typical villain role. If handled effectively, Quaritch’s evolving connection with Spider might shift his portrayal from a straightforward antagonist to a more three-dimensional figure wrestling with loyalty, love, and power.
Principal Cast Behind Avatar: Fire and Ash
The film features returning cast members reprising their roles, including Sam Worthington as Jake Sully and Zoe Saldana as Neytiri. Sigourney Weaver returns in the role of Kiri, while Stephen Lang once again portrays the formidable Colonel Miles Quaritch. Their performances will continue to anchor the narrative as these characters navigate new conflicts and alliances.
