Prime Video Nears Order for Kelvin Yu's 'Clone Saga' Series to Replace 'Spider-Noir'

Key points

• Prime Video is closing in on a series order for a new show based on the Marvel Comics 'Clone Saga' storyline.
• The series is written by Kelvin Yu, creator of 'American Born Chinese', and falls under the multi-title deal between Amazon MGM Studios and Sony Pictures Television.
• It will succeed 'Spider-Noir', which was canceled after one season, and will air on both MGM+ and Prime Video.
• Executive producers Amy Pascal, Phil Lord, and Christopher Miller are expected to return for this new project.
• Sources indicate the plot may significantly alter the comic origins, potentially changing the characters' identities or clone status.

Background

This development follows the recent cancellation of 'Spider-Noir' and continues Sony's strategy to leverage its extensive Spider-Man IP library. Recent box office successes, such as 'Spider-Man: Brand New Day', have reinforced the commercial viability of the franchise, prompting continued investment in adjacent television properties despite previous cancellations like 'Silk: Spider Society'.

How outlets are covering it

Deadline reports that the series is nearing a green light and highlights conflicting information regarding the plot: some sources suggest it will follow the clones grappling with their identities, while others claim the characters' origins may be entirely altered. SlashFilm notes that the project's structure may be influenced by the success of DC's 'Lanterns' and provides background on the comic's origin, where the villain Jackal creates the clones. Both outlets agree that the show is a direct successor to 'Spider-Noir' under the same executive producers, but SlashFilm emphasizes the potential for significant deviations from the source material, whereas Deadline focuses on the business deal between Amazon and Sony.

Why it matters

This move signals Amazon's continued commitment to the Sony Spider-Man universe despite the cancellation of its first series. It also highlights the industry trend of adapting controversial or complex comic book storylines for television, potentially reshaping how legacy characters are portrayed in streaming media.

What to watch

Watch for an official announcement from Amazon MGM Studios and Sony Pictures Television confirming the series order and release date. Monitor for casting announcements, as the show will feature a different iteration of Ben Reilly than the one played by Nicolas Cage in 'Spider-Noir'.