Tom Holland Reveals the One Thing About Spider-Man That Changed His Life Forever
OPINION: This article may contain commentary which reflects the author's opinion.
Since first donning the iconic red-and-blue suit in Captain America: Civil War (2016), Tom Holland has repeatedly reflected on the aspects of playing Spider-Man that have made the role so meaningful to him. Over nearly a decade in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, Holland’s portrayal of Peter Parker has resonated with fans worldwide. Through interviews and personal commentary, the actor has offered insights into why this character remains close to his heart and what he found most rewarding about being Spider-Man.
The Weight of Responsibility
For Holland, playing Spider-Man meant far more than simply acting in blockbuster films. The young actor quickly became aware of the responsibility that came with portraying a character who serves as a beacon of hope for many. In a 2021 interview with GQ, Holland explained, “I have to remind myself that being Spider-Man is more of a responsibility than just having a job. There are kids out there who are bullied at school who don’t fit in, and Spider-Man is their go-to guy, you know? And at the moment I’m that guy.”
This sense of duty extended beyond the set. Holland embraced the opportunity to connect with young fans who saw Spider-Man as a relatable figure—an everyday teenager navigating extraordinary circumstances. In a 2024 interview with J-14, he reiterated, “Being Spider-Man is more of a responsibility than just having a job,” emphasizing how much he valued the chance to inspire and uplift children around the world.
A Personal Connection to Peter Parker
Holland often described his relationship with Peter Parker as deeply personal. In a 2023 interview with The Hindu, he revealed, “I love playing Spider-Man and Peter Parker. I feel like he is my best friend, you know? He changed my life.” This emotional attachment made the role more than just another gig; it became a defining chapter of his life and career.
His connection to the character extended to his efforts to protect Spider-Man’s legacy. Speaking to Entertainment Tonight in 2023, Holland said, “I feel very protective over Spider-Man. I feel very, very lucky that we were able to work on a franchise that got better with each movie.” For Holland, playing Peter wasn’t just about the fun and excitement of superhero stardom—it was about honoring the character’s legacy and ensuring that each installment resonated with audiences.
Spider-Man’s Relatability and Humanity
One of the key elements Holland appreciated most was Spider-Man’s relatability. In a 2017 interview with Empire, he noted, “What I love about playing Spider-Man is that he’s a kid who’s trying to figure out his life and his powers, and he’s just trying to do the right thing. I think that’s something that a lot of people can relate to.” This portrayal of Peter as a struggling, well-meaning teenager allowed audiences to see themselves in the character, a trait Holland deeply admired.
His portrayal was often praised for capturing Peter Parker’s humanity, blending humor, vulnerability, and determination. By staying true to the character’s roots—balancing the weight of great responsibility with the challenges of adolescence—Holland found a role that resonated with fans of all ages, making it a central joy of his time as Spider-Man.
The Thrill of Action and Stunt Work
Beyond the emotional and social aspects of the role, Holland also found immense satisfaction in the physical demands of playing Spider-Man. With a background in dance and acrobatics, Holland took pride in performing many of his own stunts. In a 2017 interview with The New York Times, he shared, “I love the stunt work. I love being able to do my own stunts. It’s a lot of fun.”
From scaling the Washington Monument in Homecoming to the jaw-dropping action sequences in No Way Home, Holland embraced the physicality of the role. The opportunity to push his athletic abilities and contribute to Spider-Man’s trademark agility was a key aspect of his enjoyment, blending his theatrical training with the adrenaline of superhero action.
A Legacy of Enjoyment
Throughout his tenure as Spider-Man, Tom Holland repeatedly expressed how much he enjoyed the role’s combination of personal, emotional, and physical rewards. The responsibility to inspire fans, his deep bond with Peter Parker, and the excitement of stunt work all contributed to what Holland loved most. For him, being Spider-Man was not just a defining career milestone—it was a profoundly meaningful journey that allowed him to connect with audiences, explore his own limits, and leave an indelible mark on one of pop culture’s most cherished heroes.
