The upcoming ‘Fantastic Four: First Steps’ has fans buzzing, not only for the long-awaited introduction of Marvel’s First Family into the MCU but also for Robert Downey Jr.’s return to the franchise as one of Marvel’s most iconic villains: Doctor Doom.
For months, whispers suggested that Doom might make his debut in a post-credits scene, teasing a major connection to the Fantastic Four. However, now, director Matt Shakman has shut down the speculation, at least for now.
How Leaving Doctor Doom Out Of ‘The Fantastic Four: First Steps’ Helps The MCU
Speaking to Empire Magazine, Matt Shakman firmly stated, “Doom is not a part of my film, and therefore not a part of my purview.” This seemingly clear-cut statement has sent fans into a frenzy. Is Doctor Doom truly absent from the film, or is Marvel simply pulling another classic misdirect to preserve one of their biggest surprises? More importantly, what does this mean for ‘Fantastic Four: First Steps’, and how does this decision shape the future of the MCU’s Multiverse Saga?
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Let’s face it, Doctor Doom has been a staple of every live-action Fantastic Four adaptation. He has always loomed large as the central antagonist ever since his debut. However, that history hasn’t always worked in the character’s favor. Time and again, Victor Von Doom has been portrayed with either a lack of depth or a generic evil genius template that didn’t do justice to the complex figure fans know from the comics.
By choosing not to include Doctor Doom in ‘Fantastic Four: First Steps’, the MCU might finally be giving the character the respect he deserves. Instead of cramming him into a film already packed with big concepts like Galactus, Silver Surfer, and the introduction of Franklin Richards, Marvel is giving Doom the room to breathe. Marvel might be planning to position Doctor Doom as the central villain of ‘Avengers: Doomsday’ and ‘Secret Wars.’
So, saving him for that larger narrative makes creative and strategic sense. Since the film takes place on an alternate Earth in the 1960s with retro-futuristic tech and visuals, it sets the stage for a tone and aesthetic unlike anything else in the MCU.
The Rise Of Franklin Richards Sets Up Doom’s Epic Entry
While fans may feel disappointed about Doctor Doom’s absence from ‘First Steps’, Marvel hasn’t left the future of the franchise empty-handed. The film prominently introduces Franklin Richards, the son of Reed Richards and Sue Storm. As we all know, Franklin in the comics, is among the most powerful beings in the Marvel Universe. The latest trailer gives us our first look at Franklin in action.
In case you missed it: How Pedro Pascal’s Reed Richards Portrayal In ‘The Fantastic Four: First Steps’
While his full powers might be held back for now, his presence alone marks a game-changing addition to the MCU. With his reality-warping abilities, he’s a cosmic wildcard, capable of influencing the fate of entire universes. And in a saga centered around multiversal collapse, his role will be pivotal. Set against the threat of Galactus, the story of ‘First Steps’ feels big, bold, and emotionally grounded.
The trailer reveals touching family dynamics, thrilling action sequences, and the iconic Fantasticar in motion. The retro-futuristic setting offers vibrant visuals that both honor the comics and give the franchise its own unique MCU identity. As for Doctor Doom? All signs still point to his eventual arrival. Whether or not he shows up in a post-credits scene, his story is clearly being saved for something bigger.
