Joe Keery, known for his role as Steve Harrington in Netflix’s Stranger Things, has become a popular candidate for a villain part in the upcoming Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) film Spider-Man: Brand New Day. Following the conclusion of Stranger Things, fans and insiders alike are speculating about Keery’s next major project, particularly in relation to the MCU, where rumors suggest he could portray Harry Osborn, an important character connected to Peter Parker.
Keery Responds to Spider-Man Villain Rumors
In a recent interview regarding his new horror comedy Cold Storage, Keery addressed the rumors about joining MCU’s Spider-Man film. He expressed familiarity with the Spider-Man franchise and found the idea of playing Harry Osborn—Peter Parker’s close friend turned adversary—to be appealing. While not confirming anything, Keery remarked in reference to the timing of roles,
“the right thing happens at the right time”
, signaling a cautious optimism about new opportunities. He also conveyed enthusiasm about potential offers, stating,
“I guess you just keep your eyes open, and you read a ton and just hope for the best, I guess. [But] sure. Come on. Where’s the script? Let’s go.”
Ongoing Speculation and Filming Activity in Scotland
Although no official announcements have been made regarding the casting of Harry Osborn in Spider-Man: Brand New Day, Keery’s presence in Glasgow, Scotland—a location confirmed for Spider-Man production—last year has fueled further speculation. Conflicting insider reports add complexity: some identify Keery as a leading choice for the villain role, while others suggest Marvel is considering him for a different character. These mixed signals have kept fans eagerly watching.
Previous Portrayals and Rival Casting Rumors
The Harry Osborn character has been represented by different actors across various Spider-Man adaptations. Willem Dafoe notably played the villainous Green Goblin in Sam Raimi’s Spider-Man series and reprised this role in Spider-Man: No Way Home (2021). Meanwhile, Colman Domingo lent his voice to Osborn in the animated Disney+ series Your Friendly Neighborhood Spider-Man and hoped to translate that portrayal into live-action MCU films. However, more recent reports link Tramell Tillman, known from Severance, to a notable MCU part as William Metzger, an antagonist related to the Department of Damage Control, rather than as Osborn.
Key Cast Members Confirmed for Spider-Man: Brand New Day
Spider-Man: Brand New Day will star Tom Holland as Peter Parker/Spider-Man, Zendaya as Michelle Jones, and Jacob Batalon as Ned Leeds. Mark Ruffalo returns as Bruce Banner/Hulk, continuing to connect the film to the broader MCU universe. The film’s cast lineup reflects a mix of established characters and potential newcomers, as rumors regarding Keery and other actors persist.
Implications and Anticipation Ahead of the Film’s Release
The possibility of Joe Keery stepping into the MCU as a significant villain in Spider-Man: Brand New Day highlights the ongoing evolution of the franchise’s character roster and story arcs. Should Keery secure the role of Harry Osborn, it would mark a notable expansion in his career from Stranger Things fame to blockbuster superhero films. For fans, this opens up fresh opportunities for complex dynamics within the Spider-Man universe. As Marvel continues casting decisions, anticipation builds around which actors will ultimately shape the next phase of the MCU’s Spider-Man saga.
