Tom Hardy has carved out a unique space in modern action cinema, balancing gritty roles with iconic comic book characters. While his recent Netflix thriller Havoc showcased his action chops, it's his turn as the symbiote-fueled anti-hero Venom that remains a box office phenomenon. Now, that $856 million blockbuster is making a major streaming move.
As of May 2026, Venom is officially available on Paramount+, joining Hardy's other hit series MobLand on the platform. The film, which earned more than eight times its production budget, launched what became known as the Sony Spider-Man Universe (SSU). Whether audiences were genuinely excited for a standalone Venom movie or simply confused after seeing Avengers: Infinity War months earlier, the result was undeniable: the film grossed $856 million worldwide.
The Rise and Fall of the SSU
Venom was the first and most successful entry in the SSU. Hardy returned for two sequels—Let There Be Carnage and The Last Dance—but each saw diminishing returns. Outside the trilogy, the SSU struggled mightily. Morbius and Madame Web became punchlines, landing on multiple "worst of the year" lists and spawning endless internet memes. By the time Kraven the Hunter arrived, audience goodwill had evaporated. Sony soon announced an indefinite hiatus for the SSU.
A Fresh Start: Animated Venom Reboot in the Works
But the symbiote isn't done yet. Sony is developing a new animated Venom film, directed by Zach Lipovsky and Adam B. Stein—the duo behind Final Destination Bloodlines. The project is a full reboot with no ties to the live-action trilogy and is reportedly targeting an R-rating. Hardy is involved, though it's unclear if he'll voice the character or serve as a producer. Fans who criticized the earlier films for playing it safe—especially the missing white spider emblem—are hopeful this version will embrace the character's darker, more violent comic roots.
For now, subscribers can revisit the original Venom on Paramount+, where it joins a robust library of action and thriller titles. Other recent additions include Henry Cavill's Night Hunter and Michael Bay's 13 Hours, making May 2026 a strong month for streaming action fans.
Whether you're a longtime fan or a newcomer curious about the symbiote saga, Venom is now just a click away on Paramount+.
