After momentarily passing on the opportunity to play the next “Spider-Man” villain, Michael Keaton is back in talks to join Sony’s “Spider-Man: Homecoming.”
Keaton was being eyed to play the villain last month, but talks had barely begun before the actor pulled his name from consideration over money issues. Sources said the dispute occurred after Robert Downey Jr. was added to the cast to reprise his role as Tony Stark. At the time, it appeared as though the studio wouldn’t be able to afford both talents.
With Downey’s deal now closed, insiders say Sony and Marvel have now returned to Keaton and have found a way to make both parties happy.
If a deal closes, Keaton would join Tom Holland, who is set to play the web-slinger in the film, directed by Jon Watts. Marisa Tomei is set to play Aunt May and Zendaya is also on board in a mystery role. Kevin Feige is producing with Amy Pascal.
Plot details are still being heavily guarded.
Keaton has starred in the last two Oscar best picture winners, “Birdman” and “Spotlight,” and also has “The Founder” bowing in August, which is already garnering early award season buzz.
He is repped by ICM Partners.