The Marvel Character You Likely Forgot Succession's James Cromwell Played

"Succession" has solidified itself as one of the most popular shows on television thanks to its stellar ratings and a slew of awards. The HBO dramedy series has been consistently praised for its sharp writing and performances, for which it has won several awards. The show, which satirizes the lives of American media moguls, continues to find new viewers who become enthralled with its wide array of dysfunctional characters.

James Cromwell, who has had an incredibly healthy career as an actor for over four decades, appears in the series as billionaire Ewan Roy, brother to Waystar Royco CEO Logan Roy (Brian Cox), and grandfather to the bumbling but endlessly likeable Cousin Greg (Nicholas Braun). Though Cromwell has only appeared in a handful of "Succession" episodes, he's well-remembered for the apathy he houses for his brother and the mind games he plays against his grandson.

Cromwell's career is filled with highs as the star has numerous prestigious nominations under his belt, including an Oscar nod for best supporting actor. The star won his first Emmy in 2013 for his performance in "American Horror Story: Asylum." Having appeared in so many projects from a wide array of genres, it's no surprise that Cromwell's impressive CV has seen him take on a role in a superhero film.

James Cromwell has never shied away from genre fare throughout his lengthy career, having appeared in sci-fi films like "Star Trek: First Contact" and "I, Robot" before joining the world of Marvel in 2007. Superhero films have become so popular that it's hard to find well-known stars who haven't appeared in a Marvel or DC film! Before the Marvel Cinematic Universe took over the big screen, the "Succession" star played Capt. George Stacy in "Spider-Man 3."

Cromwell's Capt. Stacy appears briefly throughout the film as the head of the New York Police Department and father to Gwen Stacy (Bryce Dallas Howard), who eventually begins to date Peter Parker (Tobey Maguire). Capt. Stacy notably reveals to Peter and Aunt May (Rosemary Harris) that the man behind the murder of Uncle Ben (Cliff Robertston) is still at large, which causes Spider-Man to embark on a vengeful hunt.

Capt. Stacy, then played by Denis Leary, appeared in "The Amazing Spider-Man" films but the head of police wasn't part of Tom Holland's recent "Spider-Man" trilogy, which is set in the MCU. As for Cromwell, we can't help but wonder if he'll appear in more fantastical projects in the future, as his recent projects since "Succession" have been relatively grounded.