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

2025 marks 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 family, promising to deliver the long-awaited, truly great Fantastic Four film. The recently released teaser trailer offers a closer look at the foursome and first glimpses 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?

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Where Is Robert Downey Jr.'s Doctor Doom?

Marvel's San Diego Comic-Con announcement that The Avengers 5 (renamed The Avengers: Doomsday) would star Robert Downey Jr. as Doctor Doom surprised many. The connection between Doom and Iron Man in the comics fueled speculation about Doom's role in setting up the next major Avengers threat. However, the teaser trailer offers no direct clues to Doom's presence, hinting at a different approach than previous Fantastic Four films. While Julian McMahon and Toby Kebbell's Dooms were central villains, this iteration prioritizes Galactus, Silver Surfer, and John Malkovich's undisclosed character.

Given Doom's connection to the Fantastic Four and the proximity of First Steps to Avengers: Doomsday (May 2026), his appearance is anticipated, even if only to tease the next Avengers villain. A key question is Doom's universe of origin; he's clearly not Earth-616. Is he from the First Steps universe, a darker alternate Tony Stark reality, or another world entirely? Even a post-credits appearance could establish his character and motivations.

Regardless of his role, Doom won't be the central focus; the Fantastic Four face a much larger, literal threat.

The Fantastic Four vs. Galactus

The teaser clearly highlights Galactus, the Devourer of Worlds, voiced by Ralph Ineson (Game of Thrones), as the primary antagonist. Drawing inspiration from the classic "Galactus Trilogy," the film depicts a well-established Fantastic Four confronting their greatest challenge. The movie explores the lengths Reed and his family will go to save Earth, potentially involving the Ultimate Nullifier and its connection to the Multiverse Saga.

This Galactus differs from Rise of the Silver Surfer's depiction, presented here in humanoid form, a more character-driven approach than a simple force of nature. While Galactus appears, his herald, Silver Surfer (played by Julia Garner), is absent from the teaser. The film likely follows a similar arc to the comics and 2007 film, with Silver Surfer initially serving Galactus before rebelling after encountering Earth.

Who Is John Malkovich Playing?

Beyond Galactus and Silver Surfer, John Malkovich's character remains a mystery. Rumors suggest he may be Ivan Kragoff (The Red Ghost) or Mole Man, both iconic Fantastic Four villains. His appearance and past roles suggest Red Ghost is plausible, though the extent of his campy origins' inclusion is uncertain. Mole Man, another possibility, aligns with Malkovich's character's appearance. Regardless, Malkovich likely portrays a secondary villain clashing with the Fantastic Four early in the film.

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. While not an origin story, flashbacks to the team's origins are included.

The costumes differ significantly from previous adaptations, reflecting a more scientific and adventurous aesthetic, inspired by John Byrne's classic comics. Marketing emphasizes the Future Foundation, raising the possibility of younger heroes, including Franklin and Valeria Richards, appearing. Franklin's immense power may be linked to Galactus's targeting of Earth.

Fantastic Four: First Steps releases July 25, 2025.

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