Stranger Things alumnus expresses interest in a villainous MCU role
Joe Keery, best known for playing Steve Harrington on Stranger Things, acknowledged recent fan speculation that he could take on a major Spider-Man villain in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. In an interview with ScreenRant, Keery said he’s aware of fan edits casting him as Harry Osborn—the character who becomes the Green Goblin—and called the idea “fun to entertain.” When asked whether he sees himself joining the MCU alongside several of his former co-stars, Keery kept his response deliberately open-ended: “the right thing happens at the right time,” he said, adding, “Where’s the script? Let’s go.”
Keery also confirmed he’s reading scripts and keeping an eye out for the right opportunity, summarizing his approach simply: “I guess you just keep your eyes open, and you read a ton and just hope for the best.”
Stranger Things actors already in the MCU
Stranger Things has become a frequent talent source for Marvel projects. To date, three alumni have crossed into the MCU:
- David Harbour appeared as the Red Guardian in Black Widow.
- Joseph Quinn played Johnny Storm (the Human Torch) in The Fantastic Four: First Steps.
- Sadie Sink is set to appear in the upcoming Spider-Man: Brand New Day.
Keery’s comments feed into broader fan curiosity about which other Stranger Things performers might next migrate to superhero franchises—whether as heroes or iconic villains.
Why Green Goblin talk resonates
The Green Goblin, traditionally associated with Harry Osborn, remains one of Spider-Man’s most famous antagonists and has not yet had a definitive introduction in the MCU. Fan edits placing Keery in the role have circulated online, helping fuel conversations about the actor’s suitability for a more morally ambiguous, villainous turn—an appealing departure from his Steve Harrington persona.
Keery’s measured response—interested but noncommittal—reflects how many actors approach blockbuster rumors: publicly open to iconic roles while waiting for concrete offers and scripts.
What’s next for Spider-Man on screen
The Spider-Man franchise is active both within and outside the MCU. Notable upcoming and current projects include:
- Spider-Man: Brand New Day — Production reportedly wrapped in December 2025, with a theatrical release scheduled for July 31, 2026. Tom Holland returns as Peter Parker, joined by Sadie Sink in an undisclosed role. The film’s announced cast also includes Zendaya (MJ), Mark Ruffalo (Bruce Banner/The Hulk), Jon Bernthal (Punisher), Michael Mando (Scorpion), Tramell Tillman, and Liza Colón-Zayas.
- Spider-Noir — A Prime Video series slated to debut this year, presented in both black-and-white and “true-hue color.” Early images and casting announcements highlight Nicolas Cage as Ben Reilly/The Spider, with Lamorne Morris, Li Jun Li, Karen Rodriguez, Jack Huston as Sandman, and Brendan Gleeson as Silvermane.
With Marvel moving toward new crossovers and Spider-Man projects on multiple platforms, opportunities for actors to step into legacy roles—heroic or villainous—are expanding.
What to watch for
- Casting announcements: Marvel tends to reveal major casting decisions through official press releases and event panels; until then, fans should treat speculation and fan edits as just that.
- Script attachments: Keery’s emphasis on scripts underscores the practical reality of franchise work—actors often wait for the right material and creative fit.
- Stranger Things careers: As more cast members branch into film and superhero franchises, the pattern of crossover roles may continue, further intertwining Netflix alumni with studio tentpoles.
All five seasons of Stranger Things remain available to stream on Netflix, and fans will likely keep an eye on which cast members make the leap into comic-book adaptations next.