Caleb McLaughlin, known for his role on Stranger Things, recently addressed widespread speculation suggesting he auditioned to play the live-action version of Marvel’s Miles Morales. The rumors gained traction after McLaughlin posted videos on social media showing off impressive gymnastic flips, which fans quickly connected to the superhero’s acrobatic style. Speaking to E! News, McLaughlin clarified that the flips were simply a personal hobby and not related to any secret Marvel audition.
The Actor’s Explanation Behind the Viral Gymnastics Videos
In a video shared on X, McLaughlin directly shut down rumors claiming the gymnastics were part of a covert audition or preparation for portraying Miles Morales. He insisted that performing these flips was nothing more than a leisure activity he picked up with friends, rather than a professional training effort. He explained,
“I would love to play Miles, but that was just a hobby that I picked up with some friends of mine. It wasn’t—I wasn’t like practicing for anything. That wasn’t a soft audition. That was just Caleb being Caleb.” — Caleb McLaughlin, Actor
This candid statement aims to halt the speculation cycle and reminds fans that not every publicized moment has a hidden career motive behind it.
Why Fans Connected McLaughlin’s Moves to Miles Morales Casting
The original clip features McLaughlin enthusiastically jumping, spinning, and landing with sharp control, which naturally reminded viewers of the agile qualities associated with Spider-Man’s character, particularly Miles Morales. Given the secrecy that often surrounds superhero casting decisions, many audiences found it believable that McLaughlin might be informally auditioning by showcasing relevant skills. The combination of his rising popularity and the spider-themed physical moves fueled excitement and debate on multiple platforms.
McLaughlin’s Open Admiration for Miles Morales
Despite denying any secret auditions, McLaughlin has consistently expressed his strong desire to play the role of Miles Morales. At the premiere of his new animated film, Goat, he spoke about the character’s significance and personal relevance. McLaughlin, a native of New York’s Bronx, resonates with the cultural and geographical connections that Miles Morales represents, strengthening his admiration beyond just fandom. His interest in the role reflects respect for the broader impact of the Sony Spider-Verse franchise rather than an active casting pursuit.
Balancing Leisure and Career Paths Amid Intense Public Scrutiny
McLaughlin emphasized that the backflips were a way to stay active while enjoying time with friends. The fact that these moves coincidentally aligned with superhero agility stirred fan speculation, but the actor stresses this was purely incidental. As McLaughlin navigates the next stage of his career after completing his role as Lucas Sinclair on Stranger Things, he is focused on exploring new opportunities without getting locked into a single franchise identity.
The Broader Context of McLaughlin’s Career Evolution
After his acclaimed five-season run on Netflix’s Stranger Things, McLaughlin is turning to diverse projects, exemplified by his latest work, the animated film Goat. This project offers a fresh platform for him to showcase his talents beyond the character that introduced him to global recognition. The attention his social media posts attract reveals both the enthusiasm of his supporters and the pressures young actors face in the digital age, where every casual moment is scrutinized for potential career clues.
Future Prospects for McLaughlin and Miles Morales Role Remain Uncertain
Though McLaughlin’s love for the character is clear, whether he will ever take on the role of Miles Morales remains unanswered. In the meantime, fans can enjoy his powerful performances on Stranger Things through Netflix, and look forward to his upcoming appearance in Goat, which is scheduled for release on February 13, 2026. His career trajectory will likely continue to evolve, with choices shaped by both his ambitions and the industry’s unpredictable nature.
Hey Kevin Feige, we think you should call Caleb McLaughlin… pic.twitter.com/Bvqdw4CYl1
— E! News (@enews) February 9, 2026
