Published: July 2025 | By PopCulture Spotlight
Tom Hardy’s journey as Eddie Brock and Venom, which began with the 2018 hit Venom, officially came to a close with the release of Venom: The Last Dance in 2024. The third installment of Sony’s anti-hero trilogy not only concludes Hardy’s character arc but also opens the door for future stories within the symbiote universe. The film had faced delays due to the 2023 Hollywood strikes but was completed soon after production resumed.
The End of Hardy’s Venom Era
Hardy had always been contracted for a trilogy, and The Last Dance was crafted as his final chapter. The movie ends with Eddie Brock and Venom making the ultimate sacrifice in a climactic battle against Knull, the ancient symbiote god. While the characters appear to die, a mid-credits scene reveals a sliver of the symbiote surviving—leaving just enough intrigue for future storylines.
Though Hardy’s story concludes, the symbiote’s continued presence hints that the Venom name will live on in some form, albeit without its original lead.
What the Future Looks Like
Sony is now turning its attention toward developing Venom beyond the Hardy era. Reports suggest that an animated Venom project is in the early stages, although no official announcement has been made. Director Kelly Marcel has hinted that the character of Knull could return, potentially setting the stage for spin-offs or a new host for the alien symbiote.
Meanwhile, Hardy is shifting gears professionally. After wrapping his work on Venom, he starred in the Netflix action-thriller Havoc, released in April 2025. He also features in the gritty crime series MobLand alongside Pierce Brosnan and Helen Mirren. Hardy has acknowledged in interviews that the physical demands of action roles have taken a toll on his body, mentioning injuries including knee surgeries, a herniated disc, and chronic sciatica. Going forward, he plans to focus on less physically intense roles.
Spider-Man Crossover Still Out of Reach
One of the most anticipated but unrealized crossovers was between Hardy’s Venom and Tom Holland’s Spider-Man. While there were teases and fan speculation, Hardy later explained that although there were discussions, a crossover was never finalized. Studio rights, creative direction, and franchise plans have made this pairing unlikely, at least during Hardy’s tenure.
What Matters Now
- Hardy’s Departure: Marks the end of the original trilogy and potentially the Eddie Brock version of Venom.
- Future of the Franchise: Sony may explore animated adaptations or new live-action characters to continue the symbiote legacy.
- Hardy’s Career Path: He is expected to focus on drama, series work, and possibly directing, stepping back from heavy action roles.
Final Thoughts
Venom: The Last Dance delivers both a thrilling finale and a respectful goodbye to one of Hardy’s most iconic roles. While the door remains open for the symbiote’s return in another form, Hardy’s Eddie Brock has had his final bow. Sony now faces the challenge—and opportunity—of reinventing Venom for a new chapter.
The symbiote survives. But for now, Tom Hardy has danced his last dance.