Spider-Man 2’s Natasha Ofili Talks Landing, Expanding, and Playing the Role of Hailey Cooper

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As a gamer who has been through countless adventures with Spider-Man and his pals, let me tell you that the release of Marvel’s Spider-Man 2 was a game-changer for me – quite literally! The game took the relationship between Peter and Miles to new heights, delving deeper into their personal lives. For Peter, it was about Mary Jane; for Miles, it was all about Hailey Cooper.

In 2023, Marvel’s Spider-Man 2 was one of the most significant video games, continuing and enhancing the solid groundwork set by its previous versions. Following Marvel’s Spider-Man, which centered on Peter Parker, and Marvel’s Spider-Man Miles Morales, which primarily focused on the younger hero named Miles Morales, Marvel’s Spider-Man 2 shared protagonist roles between both characters. This game delved into their friendship in depth, exploring their personal relationships more intimately. For Peter, this involved his relationship with Mary Jane; for Miles, the game developed his bond with Hailey Cooper.

I had an exciting chat with Natasha Ofili, the talented actress behind Hailey in our beloved series. She opened up about her journey of securing the role and the veil of secrecy that surrounded it at first. Interestingly enough, she shared how the chemistry between her character and Miles Morales, played by Nadji Jeter, expanded Hailey’s role from a small part to something much larger than originally intended.

Natasha Ofili on How She Landed the Role in the Marvel’s Spider-Man Series

She Didn’t Know She Auditioned for a Marvel’s Spider-Man Game

Sometimes, performers in video games may try out for roles without knowing all the details about them initially. Some significant productions are kept secret for a long time until the director is certain they’ve found the perfect cast members. Ofili revealed that this was exactly what happened during her audition for Hailey Cooper in Marvel’s Spider-Man: Miles Morales, and she expressed her surprise when she discovered this later on.

Initially, I wasn’t informed that the audition was for a Marvel project; that detail was kept under wraps. They were searching for an artist, specifically a spray painter, who is also Black and Deaf. Upon learning I had secured the role through my agency, they revealed it was indeed a Marvel production – a Spider-Man video game. It took me by surprise! The whole experience, from the body scan to having my face scanned, was extraordinary and quite unlike any traditional set work.

Hailey’s Role Became Larger Thanks to the Chemistry Between Ofili and Jeter

Actors often find working on video games distinct from making movies or TV shows, and for Ofili, who promotes Deaf representation in media, this difference proved particularly engaging. Initially, Hailey’s role was minor, but as Ofili collaborated with Nadji Jeter on set, the director recognized their compatibility. Over time, Ofili shared that this camaraderie led to her role expanding significantly.

Initially, I had a minuscule part, but as I worked alongside Nadji Jeter, who portrays Miles Morales, the director noticed our rapport. They paused to consider, ‘hold on, there’s some real potential here.’ We came up with some spontaneous scenes not originally scripted, and these additions led to a larger role.

In Marvel’s Spider-Man 2, Hailey’s character development reached a peak by introducing a personal mission tailored for her. This exclusive gaming experience offered players a glimpse into the life of a Deaf individual. The mission, devoid of sound, showcased some of the challenges a Deaf person might encounter daily. This authentic portrayal earned Insomniac Games and Ofili herself praise from critics and the Deaf community alike. Ofili takes immense pride in her gaming contributions and aspires that her future work will serve as an inspiration for Black and Deaf individuals globally.

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2024-10-25 18:24