JONESBORO, Ark. (KAIT) – What began as a simple, spontaneous act of kindness has launched a Jonesboro man into the national spotlight — and onto Hollywood’s red carpet.
Christopher Hellenthal, known around town as Jonesboro’s “friendly neighborhood Spider-Man,” recently returned from the world premiere of the new film Spider-Man: Brand New Day after catching the attention of Sony Pictures.
Hellenthal’s rise to internet fame began last week when a video went viral showing him in full costume helping a man in a wheelchair cross a busy Jonesboro street.
“All of a sudden, I’m driving down the road, Good Morning America is calling my phone,” Hellenthal said.
The video spread rapidly across social media platforms, capturing national attention and landing on news sites as far away as Australia. Following an appearance on the radio show Stafford and Frigo, Hellenthal received a message he never expected. Sony Pictures, the studio behind the web-slinging franchise, invited him to the official world premiere.
On Monday, Hellenthal travelled to California for the debut of the highly anticipated film. He said the movie is a must-see.
“It was a very emotional movie,” Hellenthal said. “It’s a more mature movie, but it is so good, and I know it’s going to hit home with a lot of people.”
Despite the sudden brush with Hollywood glamour, Hellenthal said his feet remain firmly on the ground. Until his next big adventure, he plans to keep putting on the suit and serving his hometown community.
“I will try and hopefully make some people laugh and make some people smile,” he said. “But also try to spread some really good, heartwarming messages whenever they can come.”
Spider-Man: Brand New Day swings into theaters nationwide this Friday.
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