'It Almost Didn't Happen': The Untold Story of Vulture's Journey From 'The Amazing Spider-Man 3' to 'Homecoming'

Spider-Man's enemies are as iconic as a New York bagel. They've got layers, they're a bit twisted, and they're impossible to ignore. However, none have had as confusing a journey to the big screen as the winged antagonist Vulture.

The Vulture that Never Was: Sam Raimi's Dashed Dreams

As reported by Looper, Vulture was supposed to appear in Sam Raimi's "Spider-Man 3," but he was shoved aside like last year's fashion to make room for Sandman and Venom. "According to legend," the high-flying rogue, also known as Adrian Toombs, was initially cast with the unimitable John Malkovich. Concept art featuring Malkovich had fans drooling over their keyboards, fantasizing about the "nostalgic possibilities."

Who Needs Wings When You've Got Options?

Fast-forward a bit and the feathery fiend was once again hinted at in "The Amazing Spider-Man 2." The mere sight of Vulture's wings in a post-credit scene teased the Sinister Six and had fans frantically Googling for clues. But it wasn't until Tom Holland's "Spider-Man: Homecoming" that fans could finally exclaim, "'Batman' actor Michael Keaton brought Tombs to life in one of the actor's most beloved roles in years."

But wait, there's more! In a twist as complicated as a Spidey-web, John Leguizamo revealed that he nearly nabbed the role. Imagine, Spider-Man facing off against the man who voiced Sid the Sloth in "Ice Age." Mind blown, right?

End of the Flight Path: From 'The Amazing Spider-Man 3' to 'Homecoming'

So, after years of false starts and cast changes, the Vulture finally found his nest in "Spider-Man: Homecoming." And, let's be real, Michael Keaton soared in the role like a bird catching an updraft. It's a convoluted journey, one that started with "The Amazing Spider-Man 3" and ended with applause. But like all Marvel projects, it's not just about the destination, it's about the story we get along the way.

Oh, what tangled webs Marvel weaves, but at least this one has finally been unraveled.

(Several parts of the text in this article, including the title, were generated with the help of an AI tool.)