TOM HOLLAND, who was in “Wolf Hall” and the stage musical “Billy Elliot,” has grabbed the lead in the franchise reboot.

    Marvel and Sony confirmed the news in a statement on their website. The 19-year-old takes over from Andrew Garfield for the new film, which is due out in July 2017.

    There had been speculation that a black Spider-Man would be chosen this time.

    In a statement, Marvel said, “The studios and producers were impressed by Holland’s performances in ‘The Impossible,’ ‘Wolf Hall,’ and the upcoming ‘In the Heart of the Sea,’ and by a series of complex screen tests.”

    “For Spidey himself, we saw many terrific young actors, but Tom’s screen tests were special.”

    Ron Howard, who directed Tom Holland in his upcoming film ‘In the Heart of the Sea,’ says Holland will bring “heart and humor” to the role.

    “Tom’s young, incredibly agile and fit. He’s also very accessible and very relatable.

    “He’s one of us and has tremendous skills as an actor.”

    Howard, whose Hollywood films include “Apollo 13” and “A Beautiful Mind,” told the BBC, “His years as Billy Elliot have served him well.

    “He does his own stunts, some really challenging ones.

    “He’s very down to earth, very hard working and has great sense of fun.” (SD-Agencies)