Sony is coming out of 2021 on a massive high note thanks to how successful its latest Spider-Man film has been. No Way Home completely smashed records, despite the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, and became one of the biggest movies of all time. Not only that, but it has continued to outdo Avengers: Endgame, this time with digital pre-orders (per Vudu).
Given all of that, the studio's efforts with its own connected cinematic universe have seen far more movement in the wake. Venom has a third film in development, Madame Web finally got a leading actress in the form of Dakota Johnson, and Morbius might actually come out.
One of Sony's biggest, however, is Kraven the Hunter. The project will follow one of Spider-Man's biggest villains, likely showcasing an origin story of some sort—though, next to no official details are known.
Aaron Taylor-Johnson is cast as the titular character, while Fred Hechinger recently came aboard as the story's villain, the Chameleon.
Calypso Cast In Kraven
Deadline has reported that Ariana DeBose has joined Sony Pictures' upcoming Marvel film Kraven the Hunter as Calypso. She will star alongside Aaron Taylor-Johnson's titular character as a voodoo priestess that utilizes magic potions, herbs, and charms. In the comics, she has also been a partner and lover to Kraven.
DeBose was most recently seen in Steven Spielberg's West Side Story, for which she was nominated as Best Supporting Actress at the Academy Awards. She can be seen next in Apple's Argylle, an action film directed by Matthew Vaughn.
Kraven Sets Sights on Calypso
This isn't the first time word has come out about Calypso joining Kraven the Hunter. Last year it was rumored that Jodie Turner-Smith was being eyed for the role; something Justin Kroll from Deadline confirmed alongside this recent news on Twitter, where he revealed that the two parties met, but the actress was never offered the part.
As for what her role in the actual film will be, it's hard to tell. Mostly because Kraven himself has never really had a solo story, as nearly all of his adventures intertwine with Spider-Man.
Given their romantic past, it seems a no-brainer to start there. She is also responsible for helping Kraven receive enhanced abilities and physicality; things that lead towards his formidable reputation.
Currently, Kraven the Hunter is set to be released on January 13, 2023. However, it doesn't seem filming has started, despite reports in January that indicated production would begin by the end of February. Given all the recent casting news, it's bound to be right around the corner.
