Kevin Feige reveals story behind Spider-Man’s iconic handshake

Kevin Feige has revealed the surprising story behind one of the most memorable friendship moments in the recent Spider-Man movies: the elaborate handshake shared by Peter Parker and his best friend Ned Leeds.

Feige, the president of Marvel Studios, recently appeared at the D23 event alongside actor Jacob Batalon, who portrays Ned in the Spider-Man franchise. During the discussion, the two revisited some of the memorable moments from the movies, including the now-famous handshake between Ned and Peter.

According to Feige, the handshake was not originally part of the script or something specifically planned by Marvel. Instead, it was an idea developed by Batalon and Tom Holland while they were working together on Spider-Man: Homecoming.

Feige recalled that during the production of the 2016 movie, Holland and Batalon were spending time away from the main set when they came up with the idea. The Marvel executive said he noticed the two young actors approaching director Jon Watts to pitch their idea for a special handshake that could be used between their characters.

The actors reportedly wanted their characters to have a unique gesture that reflected the close friendship between Peter and Ned. Watts agreed to let them try the idea, and the handshake eventually became part of the movie.

What started as a simple idea between two young actors went on to become one of the most recognizable friendship moments in the Spider-Man franchise. The gesture helped strengthen the bond between Peter and Ned on screen while also giving their friendship a playful and distinctive identity.

Feige credited both Holland and Batalon for creating the moment and thanked Batalon for helping bring the idea to life. His comments highlighted how some of the most memorable moments in major superhero franchises can emerge naturally from the chemistry between actors rather than being carefully planned from the beginning.

Batalon has played Ned alongside Holland’s Peter Parker throughout the recent Spider-Man films, becoming an important part of the character’s journey. Their friendship has provided several lighter moments within the superhero stories, with Ned often serving as Peter’s trusted friend and supporter.

The revelation also offers fans a behind-the-scenes look at how Spider-Man: Homecoming developed some of its most memorable details. While the films feature elaborate action sequences and carefully constructed storylines, small creative decisions from the cast can sometimes become just as memorable.

The Spider-Man franchise continues to remain one of Marvel’s most successful properties, with fans eagerly following updates about its next chapter. The upcoming projects are expected to further expand Peter Parker’s story and introduce audiences to new developments in his superhero journey.

For fans who have followed Peter and Ned since their first appearance together, the story behind the handshake adds another layer to one of the franchise’s most beloved friendship moments. What began as a spontaneous idea between Holland and Batalon ultimately became an enduring part of the Spider-Man movies.