After a reported standoff between Sony and Disney about their Spider-Man partnership, and the departure of Kevin Feige as the films' producer, Sony has released a statement via Twitter regarding the matter. The statement is as follows:
"Much of today's news about Spider-Man has mischaracterized recent discussions about Kevin Feige's involvement in the franchise. We are disappointed, but respect Disney's decision not to have him continue as a lead producer of our next live-action Spider-Man film. We hope this might change in the future, but understand that the many new responsibilities that Disney has given him-including all their newly added Marvel properties-do not allow time for him to work on IP they do not own. Kevin is terrific and we are grateful for his help and guidance and appreciate the path he has helped put us on, which we will continue."
It's being reported that the real reason for the departure is that Disney wanted 50% of the gross as opposed to their previous cut of 5% and that Sony wasn't willing to raise the rate that high.