Summary
Marvel’s Spider-Man 2developer Insomniac Games paid tribute to the late Tony Todd, the actor behind the villainous Venom. One of the first things that fans knew aboutMarvel’s Spider-Man 2when it was first revealed was the voice actor of its iteration of Venom, Tony Todd. Todd was best known for playing the titular character of theCandymanseries, along with appearances in other horror films like theFinal Destinationseries andNight of the Living Dead. Before launch, many fans were excited to see the horror icon’s take as Marvel’s iconic Symbiote villain.
Following the game’s late 2023 launch on PlayStation 5,Todd’s performance as Venom inMarvel’s Spider-Man 2was lauded for the deep, growling voice that was integral to the character. In particular, many praised how authentic and chilling Todd sounded in the role, with Todd being nominated for Best Performer in a Supporting Role at the 20th British Academy Games Awards as well. Venom would also be one of Todd’s final roles before he passed away.
Tony Todd died on November 6 at age 69 from an undisclosed illness. Insomniac Games posted a message on its official Twitter account, stating how much Tony Todd brought so much joy to the studio duringSpider-Man 2’s production, along with noting how many fans loved Todd’s portrayal as Venom. The account ends its message with a take on one ofVenom’s most famous quotes: “We are Venom… forever.”
Tony Todd’s Video Game Roles
Casting Tony Todd as Venom forSpider-Man 2was a decision not only praised by fans but also by Tom Hardy,Venom’s actor in Sony’sSpider-Man Universemovies. Tony Todd himself said his role as Venom was one of his favorites, having been a big comic book and Venom fan for many years. Todd had also studied the character’s various depictions over the years and made sure to spend as much time as he could in the recording booth in order to deliver the best performance it could be.
Before his passing,Tony Todd hinted at a potential Venom-centric spin-offofMarvel’s Spider-Man 2, suggesting that he and Spider-Man/Peter Parker’s voice actor, Yuri Lowenthal, had completed two major projects together. One of these completed projects isSpider-Man 2and the other is possibly a Venom spin-off that was leaked earlier in 2023, with Insomniac Games having yet to confirm the latter. Todd is set to posthumously appear inIndiana Jones and the Great Circle, which will be releasing on December 9. Many fans also paid tribute to the late Todd following the announcement of his death, stating he was perfect as Venom.
Marvel’s Spider-Man 2
WHERE TO PLAY
Spider-Men Peter Parker and Miles Morales face the ultimate test of strength inside and outside the mask as they fight to save the city, each other and the ones they love, from the monstrous Venom and the dangerous new symbiote threat.Explore an expansive Marvel’s New York with faster web-swinging and the all-new Web Wings, quickly switching between Peter and Miles to experience different stories, epic new abilities and high-tech gear.Wield Peter’s symbiote abilities and Miles’ explosive bio-electric powers in battle against new and iconic Marvel Super Villains – including an original take on a symbiote-infused Venom, the ruthless Kraven the Hunter, the volatile Lizard, and more from the Marvel Rogues’ Gallery.
