On the set of the upcoming Spider-Noir series, Lamorne Morris revealed his mission to make co-star Nicolas Cage laugh, aiming to ease both his own nerves and Cage’s typically stoic presence. Speaking to Variety at the 2026 Film Independent Spirit Awards, Morris shared that trying to crack Cage’s composure became a personal challenge while filming the noir-inspired Marvel story.
This Prime Video and MGM+ production centers around Nicolas Cage’s character Ben Reilly, a down-and-out private investigator in 1930s New York who must confront his past as the city’s lone superhero. Morris portrays Robbie Robertson, a journalist and close friend to Reilly, adding another layer to the period mystery. The tension of the era’s atmosphere and the dark themes of the storyline created an intense but memorable experience on set, according to Morris.
An Overview of Characters and Their Roles in the Noir World
Spider-Noir showcases a collection of complex characters navigating New York’s shadowy 1930s backdrop. Ben Reilly, played by Nicolas Cage, once thrived as the superhero known as The Spider. However, after suffering a personal tragedy, he retreats from heroism and adopts the role of a private investigator until an extraordinary case beckons him back into action.
Lamorne Morris’s Robbie Robertson is an ambitious journalist, maneuvering through the challenges of the era while supporting his best friend Ben. Li Jun Li stars as Cat Hardy, a captivating figure at New York’s hotspot nightclub, whose motivations are layered beneath a tough exterior. Karen Rodriguez plays Janet, Ben’s loyal and sharp-witted secretary who is unafraid to speak her mind to protect their business and mission.
The series also features Abraham Popoola, Emmy Award–winning Jack Huston, and Brendan Gleeson, among others, who contribute to the rich tapestry of Spider-Noir’s universe. Guest appearances by performers such as Lukas Haas, Cameron Britton, and Amanda Schull round out a formidable ensemble cast.
Production Team, Style, and Creative Influences Behind Spider-Noir
Produced exclusively for MGM+ and Prime Video by Sony Pictures Television, Spider-Noir employs a distinctive aesthetic that captures the essence of classic 1930s noir, including authentic black-and-white visuals complemented by full-color sequences. Emmy Award-winning director Harry Bradbeer, known for his work on Fleabag and Killing Eve, helmed the first two episodes and served as an executive producer.
The series was developed and showrun by Oren Uziel and Steve Lightfoot, whose resumes include major titles like The Lost City and Marvel’s The Punisher. Their vision was shaped with input from the Oscar-winning team behind Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse—Phil Lord, Christopher Miller, and Amy Pascal—all serving as executive producers alongside Cage and Pavlina Hatoupis.
Behind-the-Scenes Anecdotes and Spiderverse Easter Eggs
Lamorne Morris described in detail his attempts to make Cage break character with laughter by disrupting the serious tone on set. Reflecting on his own nervousness when working with Cage, Morris found humor as a coping mechanism. Despite his efforts, Cage proved difficult to crack but even shared a lighthearted moment from a previous project, showing a clip of himself laughing uncontrollably while filming Family Man.
Lamorne Morris says he wanted to “f*ck with” Nicolas Cage by trying to make him laugh on the set of “Spider-Noir.” #SpiritAwards pic.twitter.com/9fxNTTmmp1
— Lamorne Morris, Actor
Regarding potential fan delights, Morris hinted at hidden Spiderverse Easter eggs woven throughout the show, which may reward dedicated viewers familiar with the broader Spider-Man lore. The series promises both a fresh noir twist and nods to the multiverse that fans have come to appreciate.
Release Dates and Anticipated Audience Reception
Spider-Noir is slated to premiere on MGM+ on May 25th, followed closely by its release on Prime Video on May 27th. Given its unique blend of noir style, complex character arcs, and the star power of Nicolas Cage alongside an acclaimed supporting cast, it is expected to capture both Marvel enthusiasts and audiences who appreciate period dramas.
The psychological depth and period authenticity introduce a new tone to the Marvel character, potentially broadening the appeal of superhero stories by fusing them with crime drama and detective thriller elements from the 1930s. With strong creative leadership and a talented ensemble, Spider-Noir aims to stand out in the crowded superhero genre.
Lamorne Morris says he wanted to “f*ck with” Nicolas Cage by trying to make him laugh on the set of “Spider-Noir.” #SpiritAwards pic.twitter.com/9fxNTTmmp1
— Variety (@Variety) February 15, 2026
