Pedro Pascal has officially been selected to play Mister Fantastic in the upcoming Marvel Cinematic Universe film, “Fantastic Four: First Steps.” The decision highlights Pascal’s versatility and aligns with the studio’s vision for Reed Richards, emphasizing his ability to balance intellect, action, and family—a combination that has made the announcement of
“Pedro Pascal chosen as Mister Fantastic in Fantastic Four”
a major discussion point among fans and industry insiders.
Director Matt Shakman shared with Empire Magazine that after nearly five years of rumors and speculation since Marvel confirmed the Fantastic Four’s arrival in 2019, Pedro Pascal emerged as the standout choice. Other actors, such as Adam Driver, Dev Patel, and David Tennant, were considered by fans, but Shakman’s focus was to find someone who represented more than the traditionally bookish scientist image often linked to Reed Richards. Instead, Shakman sought an actor capable of portraying the multidimensional aspects of Reed Richards—from intellect and leadership to fatherhood and friendship.
Shakman Explains the Choice of Pascal
Shakman elaborated on what set Pascal apart from other contenders in the casting process. He recognized that Pascal’s previous roles, including prominent performances in “The Mandalorian” and “The Last of Us,” demonstrated the capacity to embody strength, warmth, and emotional complexity. This was significant for Reed Richards, who, in the comics, is much more than just a genius—he is an action hero, family man, and trusted leader. The director expressed his views in a statement:
“I was looking for an actor who could contain multitudes. There’s the very cerebral Reed Richards, and then there’s the action hero, the leader, the husband, the father, the friend. I knew Pedro could do all of that.”
—Matt Shakman, Director
Pascal, on his end, described his own connection to the character, revealing the exciting challenge Reed Richards presents. He highlighted the unique internal conflicts Reed faces and what drew him creatively to the part:
“I see a limitless amount of layers to this character. He does the ultimate version of catastrophising. A brain that has an overview of threats on a mathematical level, but also being emotionally available. It was a fascinating contradiction.”
—Pedro Pascal, Actor
Fan Response and Expectations Around the Casting
Since the Fantastic Four cast announcement on Valentine’s Day 2024, the selection of Pascal as Reed Richards has sparked considerable debate. Many discussions have centered on the mismatch between fan expectations—often shaped by years of speculation—and the eventual choice. Some critics focused on the fact that Pascal does not fit the habitual image of Reed Richards as a more reserved, detached scientist, and others debated changes related to race or his recent high profile in other projects like “Materialist” by Celine Song and “Eddington” by Ari Aster.
Despite some fans struggling to let go of their preferred choices for the role, others have voiced apprehension that Pascal’s warmth and ubiquity could overshadow the character’s known traits. However, the original Marvel Comics iteration of Reed Richards, dating back to classic pulp fiction, offers a more nuanced template: an adventuring scientist akin to Doc Samson or Indiana Jones. Shakman and Marvel seem to feel that Pascal echoes the classic idea—a hero who combines intelligence, familial devotion, and adventurous spirit.
The Fantastic Four’s Role in the MCU’s Next Phase
The upcoming “Fantastic Four: First Steps” is positioned to be a key feature in Marvel’s cinematic future. The superhero team is set to appear prominently in both “Avengers: Doomsday” and “Secret Wars,” giving fans several straight years to experience Marvel’s First Family. This approach is reminiscent of the days when Robert Downey Jr.’s Tony Stark made near-annual appearances during the Infinity Saga, reinforcing the MCU’s interconnected storytelling style.
With continued, high-profile involvement, Pascal and his castmates—including Vanessa Kirby as Sue Storm, Joseph Quinn as Johnny Storm, and Ebon Moss-Bachrach as Ben Grimm—could reshape audience perceptions of the Fantastic Four. Extended exposure and compelling performances could help persuade skeptics and solidify the team as central figures in the expanding MCU storyline.
Main Cast Members and Their Roles
Pedro Pascal leads as Reed Richards, also known as Mister Fantastic. Vanessa Kirby is set to portray Sue Storm, the Invisible Woman. Joseph Quinn has been announced as Johnny Storm, the Human Torch, while Ebon Moss-Bachrach will take on the role of Ben Grimm, the Thing. Each of these casting choices reflects a deliberate effort by Marvel to find talent that can bring depth and resonance to these iconic superheroes.
The anticipation surrounding “Fantastic Four: First Steps” remains high, with the chosen cast and creative vision signaling a new era for Marvel’s storytelling. As debate continues and production moves forward, all eyes are on how this latest adaptation will influence the ongoing evolution of the MCU and the legacy of Reed Richards within it.
