The world of Spider-Man is getting bigger and darker. Nicolas Cage is stepping into the leading role of a live-action television series for the first time, and he is bringing a piece of the Spider-Verse with him. The upcoming show, Spider-Noir, has released its first trailers and confirmed a May 2026 release date on Prime Video, giving fans a clear look at how this gritty 1930s detective story fits into the larger Spider-Man multiverse.
For anyone who loved the animated Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse movie, this new series will feel familiar yet completely different. Cage is not just playing a random new character. He is stepping back into a role he knows well, but this time in a live-action world filled with fedoras, trench coats, and rain-soaked streets.
The Spider-Verse Connection Explained
The most exciting news for fans is the direct link to the Oscar-winning animated films. Nicolas Cage originally voiced the character of Spider-Man Noir in the 2018 movie Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse . That film introduced audiences to the idea of multiple Spider-People from different dimensions, including a black-and-white version from a darker 1930s universe.
Now, Spider-Noir expands that idea into a full live-action story. However, this is not simply a live-action version of the same character from the movie. Reports confirm that this series is a standalone reimagining rather than a direct spin-off . It takes the core concept of a Depression-era Spider-Man and builds a new, deeper narrative around him.
The creative team behind the scenes guarantees that the spirit of the Spider-Verse is alive in this project. The series is developed and executive produced by Phil Lord, Christopher Miller, and Amy Pascal, the same Academy Award-winning team responsible for the animated Spider-Verse films . Their involvement means the series shares the same creative DNA as the movies, even if the story is its own thing.
Fans wondering if this connects to the upcoming Spider-Man: Beyond the Spider-Verse film will find reassurance in the involvement of these producers, though the series is expected to stand on its own.
What is Spider-Noir About?
Spider-Noir takes the superhero template and flips it upside down. Set in 1930s New York City during the Great Depression, the show follows Ben Reilly (played by Nicolas Cage), a private investigator who is down on his luck .
The official synopsis reveals that Reilly was once known as “The Spider,” a superhero who protected the city. After a deeply personal tragedy, he walked away from that life. Now, years later, a new case forces him to confront his past and put the mask back on . The tagline from the teaser trailer sets the tone perfectly: “With No Power Comes No Responsibility” . It is a dark twist on the classic Peter Parker motto and fits the gritty, noir atmosphere of the show.
The teaser trailers show Cage swinging across a rainy city skyline wearing a trench coat and fedora, a far cry from the bright spandex usually associated with the character .
Meet the Cast of Spider-Noir
Nicolas Cage leads a strong ensemble cast. Playing a weary detective allows Cage to bring his unique intensity to a role that blends superhero action with crime drama.
Joining him are:
- Lamorne Morris (from New Girl and Fargo) as Robbie Robertson, a determined journalist and friend to Ben Reilly .
- Li Jun Li (from Babylon and Sinners) as Cat Hardy, a nightclub owner with secrets .
- Karen Rodriguez as Janet, Ben’s loyal and outspoken secretary .
- Abraham Popoola (from Atlas).
- Jack Huston (from Boardwalk Empire) as Flint Marko, also known as Sandman, who serves as an enforcer for the mob .
- Brendan Gleeson (from The Banshees of Inisherin and Harry Potter) as Silvermane, a philosophical and paranoid mob boss .
The series also features a long list of guest stars, including Lukas Haas, Cameron Britton, and Amanda Schull .
Release Date and How to Watch
Spider-Noir will premiere in May 2026. Here is the breakdown for viewers around the world:
- MGM+ Linear Channel (USA): The series debuts early on May 25, 2026 .
- Prime Video (Global): The show launches worldwide on May 27, 2026, in over 240 countries and territories . All episodes will be released at once, so fans can binge the entire first season immediately .
A Unique Viewing Experience
Amazon is offering something rarely seen before. Viewers will be able to choose how they watch the show . The series will be available in two formats:
- Authentic Black & White: This mode honors the classic film noir look and the original comic’s aesthetic.
- True-Hue Full Colour: This option allows viewers to see the 1930s setting in full color if they prefer .
Two versions of the teaser trailer were released to demonstrate this feature, giving fans a preview of both visual styles .
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Who is Behind the Series?
The creative credentials for Spider-Noir are impressive. Harry Bradbeer, the Emmy-winning director of Fleabag and Killing Eve, directed and executive produced the first two episodes . Oren Uziel (known for 22 Jump Street and The Lost City) and Steve Lightfoot (known for Marvel’s The Punisher) serve as co-showrunners .
The series is produced by Sony Pictures Television for MGM+ and Prime Video .
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