The Fantastic Four: First Steps - Where Is Doctor Doom In the New Teaser Trailer?

2025 is a monumental year for Marvel, but no project looms larger than The Fantastic Four: First Steps. This Phase 6 MCU kickoff finally introduces Pedro Pascal as Reed Richards and his iconic family, promising to end our decades-long wait for a truly great Fantastic Four film.

The recently released teaser trailer offers a closer look at the foursome and our first glimpse of antagonists like Ralph Ineson's Galactus and John Malkovich's mysterious character. However, one question dominates fan discussions: where is Robert Downey Jr.'s Doctor Doom?

The Fantastic Four: First Steps - Trailer 1 Stills

Where Is Robert Downey Jr.'s Doctor Doom?

Marvel's San Diego Comic-Con announcement that Avengers 5 (renamed Avengers: Doomsday) would feature Robert Downey Jr. as Doctor Doom was a surprising revelation. Fans are eager to understand Doom's role in setting up the next major Avengers-level threat, especially considering his connection to the Fantastic Four.

Marvel is remaining tight-lipped. The teaser offers no clear hints of Doom's presence, highlighting a different approach from previous Fantastic Four films. Unlike the prominent roles of Doom in previous adaptations, First Steps prioritizes Galactus, Silver Surfer, and John Malkovich's enigmatic character.

We assume First Steps will establish Doom's presence, given his connection to the Fantastic Four and the film's release before Avengers: Doomsday. A crucial question is Doom's origin. Given the casting choice, he's unlikely from Earth-616. Is he from the First Steps universe, a darker alternate Tony Stark, or another universe entirely? Even a post-credits appearance would be significant in establishing his character and motives.

Regardless, Doom won't be the central focus. The Fantastic Four face a much larger, literal threat.

The Fantastic Four vs. Galactus

The teaser clearly showcases Galactus, the Devourer of Worlds, voiced by Ralph Ineson (Game of Thrones), as the primary antagonist. Inspired by the classic "Galactus Trilogy," the film depicts the established Fantastic Four facing their ultimate challenge.

The film explores the lengths Reed and his family will go to save Earth. Will the Ultimate Nullifier, a multiverse-altering weapon, appear, and how does it connect to the Multiverse Saga and Incursions? This Galactus is a more character-driven portrayal than in Rise of the Silver Surfer, a humanoid figure towering over the Statue of Liberty, rather than a mere force of nature.

While Galactus is shown, his herald, Silver Surfer (played by Julia Garner), is absent from the teaser. We expect a similar arc to Laurence Fishburne's portrayal in 2007, beginning as Galactus' herald before rebelling.

Who Is John Malkovich Playing?

Beyond Galactus and Silver Surfer, John Malkovich's character remains a mystery. Rumors suggest Ivan Kragoff (Red Ghost) or Mole Man. Malkovich's casting as Red Ghost, given his history of Russian roles, is plausible, though the film's approach to the character's campy origins is uncertain. Alternatively, his appearance might suggest Mole Man.

Regardless, Malkovich likely portrays a secondary villain clashing with the Fantastic Four. The team's established status suggests a pre-existing rogues' gallery.

The roles of Natasha Lyonne, Sarah Niles, and Paul Walter Hauser remain unconfirmed, adding further intrigue.

Meet the Fantastic Four

The teaser primarily showcases the Fantastic Four: Pedro Pascal's Reed Richards, Vanessa Kirby's Sue Storm, Joseph Quinn's Johnny Storm, and Ebon Moss-Bacharach's Ben Grimm, along with H.E.R.B.I.E. The film emphasizes their family dynamic, highlighting Ben's struggle with his transformation and Reed's guilt.

The film isn't an origin story, though flashbacks are shown. The costumes differ significantly from previous adaptations, reflecting a more scientific and adventurous aesthetic, reminiscent of John Byrne's 1980s comics. The Future Foundation's prominence in marketing suggests the appearance of younger heroes, possibly including Franklin and Valeria Richards.

Franklin Richards' potential presence and his immense power raise questions about Galactus' targeting of Earth. The answers await the film's release on July 25, 2025.

Will Robert Downey Jr.'s Doctor Doom appear? Vote in our poll and share your theories!

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