Jack Champion on Embracing Spider’s Look in Avatar: Fire and Ash

Jack Champion shares how he fully committed to Spider’s physical and emotional journey in Avatar: Fire and Ash

Jack Champion is opening up about how he completely embraced his character Spider’s unique appearance in Avatar: Fire and Ash, the next chapter in James Cameron’s epic sci-fi franchise.

 

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by Jack Champion (@jackchampion)

Now 21, Champion filmed both Fire and Ash and Avatar: The Way of Water years ago, while he was still a teenager. In the Avatar universe, he plays Spider, a human boy raised among the Na’vi who lives with Sam Worthington’s Jake Sully, Zoe Saldaña’s Neytiri, and their family.

Spider’s look is simple but meaningful. With dreadlocks and little more than a loincloth, his appearance reflects his deep connection to Na’vi life. Speaking at the film’s Dec. 1 premiere in Los Angeles, Champion explained that fully accepting the physical demands of the role made everything easier.

 

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by Jack Champion (@jackchampion)

For his live-action scenes, Champion said he focused on Spider’s natural movement and rugged lifestyle. From rolling in mud to brushing past leaves, he chose to lean into the character rather than resist the discomfort. According to him, once he accepted it completely, it stopped feeling awkward and allowed him to give more energy to his performance.

Champion also admitted that seeing the costume come together was a turning point. After imagining the character for years, finally seeing Spider “on him” pushed him to step up his preparation and commitment. He even joked that it motivated him to train harder once he realized how the character looked on screen.

In Fire and Ash, Spider plays a bigger role in the story. His bond with Sigourney Weaver’s Kiri grows stronger, while his complicated relationship with the film’s villain, Quaritch—played by Stephen Lang—takes center stage. Quaritch is technically Spider’s father, adding emotional depth to their scenes together.

The new installment also features a strong ensemble cast, including Kate Winslet, Cliff Curtis, Giovanni Ribisi, Edie Falco, and others. It is also the longest film in the Avatar series so far.

Reflecting on life on Cameron’s set, Champion said that intense and unpredictable moments quickly became normal. Whether it was jumping across rocks or performing physically demanding scenes, adapting to constant challenges became part of his daily routine.

For Champion, embracing Spider fully—both physically and emotionally—was key. By giving “110%,” he was able to bring authenticity to a character that continues to grow in importance within the Avatar universe.