Tobey MacGuire hands over "Spider-Man" Torch to Andrew Garfield

Putting some rumors to rest, Andrew Garfield said Tobey Maguire willingly handed over the torch to the new "Spider Man" star.

In an interview with BBC News, Garfield told, "[Maguire] sent me a lovely message through a mutual friend. He gave me his support, and it meant a great deal, of course, because part of the reason I love and have continued to love this character was because of his portrayal."

The "Social Network" star continued, "To step into those shoes is no mean feat. It was generous of him to reach out and say something, so I'm thankful."

This has been a big year for Andrew, as he earned his first Golden Globe nomination for his role in "The Social Network" and is likely to earn an Oscar nod as well.

The uber-successful film was recently dubbed the best movie of the year by The Los Angeles Film Critics. The Justin Timberlake/Jesse Eisenberg flick was also named on The American Film Institute's Top 10 features of 2010.

Word of Andrew Garfield starring in "Spider-man" came in July, several months after it was revealed that Tobey Maguire would be signing off the comic book-to-movie series.

Of the role replacement, Director Marc Webb told press, "Though his name may be new to many, those who know this young actor's work understand his extraordinary talents. He has a rare combination of intelligence, wit, and humanity."

Seeing that Webb's comment was given before the box-office success of "The Social Network", it's safe to say that Garfield's name is probably a bit more popular now.

In the untitled "Spider-Man" reboot due out in July 2012, Garfield will play the central role of Peter Parker alongside his co-stars Emma Stone and Rhys Ifans.

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