Maguire Dismisses Spider-Man Demands

Tobey Maguire has rubbished reports he was nearly fired from the Spider-Man sequel - blaming the rumours on his bad back.

The rising Hollywood star suffered persistent reports his role would be given by Jake Gyllenhaal because he was reluctant to play Spider-Man again unless his salary was dramatically improved - claims Maguire is keen to clear up.

He says, "There was never a question of money or my desire to do the movie. I had discomfort in my back, told them about it, had some tests and everything was fine.

"We're making the movie. I'm two thirds of the way in and I'm more excited about this picture than I was with the first one. This is a better story, the effects are better, the stunts are better and it is more fun for me to do."