Andrew Garfield and Jamie Bell Competed To Play Spider-Man Over a Decade Ago. They Just Addressed It for the First Time

British actors Jamie Bell and Andrew Garfield recently broke their silence on a shared experience of vying for the iconic role of Spider-Man during a joint appearance on the talk show *Watch What Happens Live*. The discussion brought to light their unique history as contenders for the role in the 2012 film *The Amazing Spider-Man* and coincided with their collaboration in the upcoming period drama *The Uprising*.

Garfield, 43, landed the role of Peter Parker in *The Amazing Spider-Man*, which marked a significant moment in his career as he stepped into the shoes of one of the most beloved comic book characters. Prior to his casting, Bell, 40, was also seriously considered for the superhero role, highlighting the competitive nature of the audition process. Their recent conversation has shed light on a previously unacknowledged chapter of their professional lives.

During their appearance on the show, an audience member inquired whether they had discussed this shared history while filming *The Uprising*. To the surprise of the audience, Bell admitted that this was indeed the first time they had done so, with Garfield joking about the awkwardness of the situation. Host Andy Cohen expressed disbelief, suggesting that their conversation about the casting had been a recurring theme, but Bell maintained that it had not come up until that moment.

Reflecting on their past, Bell recounted a dinner in Los Angeles attended by both actors before the Spider-Man casting decision was made. He recalled a humorous incident where both he and Garfield reached for a salt shaker that had fallen, resulting in the others at the table playfully exclaiming, “Whoa, Spidey senses!” This light-hearted memory elicited laughter from Garfield, who confirmed that he recalled the event vividly.

Bell later lauded Garfield’s portrayal of the superhero, stating, “They clearly chose the right guy. He’s a phenomenal actor,” to which Garfield humbly responded, “No. No.” The light-hearted banter between the two showcased their camaraderie, despite their prior competition for the role.

The casting process for *The Amazing Spider-Man* had included other contenders as well, including actors Frank Dillane and Josh Hutcherson, according to earlier reports. Ultimately, Garfield’s performance as Spider-Man, alongside Emma Stone’s portrayal of Gwen Stacy, earned him acclaim, particularly in the 2012 film and its sequel, *The Amazing Spider-Man 2*. He later reprised the role in 2021’s *Spider-Man: No Way Home*, sharing the screen with fellow Spidey actors Tom Holland and Tobey Maguire.

Bell has previously noted that he progressed significantly in the casting process for the superhero role. In a 2010 interview, he mentioned that he participated in screen tests, but did not wear the Spider-Man suit during these auditions. He described the experience as “great” and acknowledged the opportunity to work with director Marc Webb during auditions.

Both actors have expressed their admiration for each other over the years. In the context of Hollywood’s trend of casting British actors for American superhero roles, Bell has articulated that casting decisions are based on talent. Citing Garfield’s abilities, he noted, “It was a no-brainer, and I think it was a really great piece of casting.”

Now, years after their brush with Spider-Man fame, the pair have united their talents in *The Uprising*, a historical narrative inspired by the Peasants’ Revolt of 1381. The story focuses on a coalition of farmers, priests, and working-class citizens in England who come together to challenge a tyrannical monarchy. In this new project, Bell portrays the character of John Ball, a heretic priest, while Garfield plays Ploughman, a grieving farmer who unexpectedly finds himself thrust into a leadership role.

As the actors transition from their earlier rivalry over a superhero mantle to portraying leaders in a historical uprising, fans are eager to see the dynamic performances they will undoubtedly bring to their new characters. With *The Uprising* set to premiere soon, audiences will have the opportunity to witness the evolution of their careers and the profound themes captured in this powerful tale.