Marvel’s The Fantastic Four: First Steps is set to launch Phase 6 of the MCU with a cosmic bang on July 25, 2025. Directed by Matt Shakman, this reboot takes Marvel’s First Family into a 1960s-inspired retro-futuristic world, pitting them against the planet-devouring Galactus. While fans are zooming about the film’s fresh approach, one major question has been answered: Doctor Doom, the iconic Fantastic Four villain, won’t be making an appearance. Well this can be true but also not at the same time. Shakman’s recent comments have clarified the role of this fan-favorite antagonist, and we’re diving into what this means for the movie and the MCU’s future.
Matt Shakman’s Stance on Doctor Doom
In a recent interview with Empire Magazine, director Matt Shakman put speculation to rest, confirming that Doctor Doom will not feature in The Fantastic Four: First Steps. This decision has sparked curiosity among fans, especially with Robert Downey Jr.’s casting as Doom for Avengers: Doomsday. Here’s what Shakman had to say and why it matters:
- Clear Statement: Shakman explicitly stated, “Doom is not a part of my film and therefore not part of my purview,” shutting down rumors of a cameo or post-credits scene featuring the Latverian ruler.
- Focus on Fresh Storytelling: Shakman emphasized that previous Fantastic Four films paired the team’s origin story with Doctor Doom, which he feels “takes up a lot of air.” By excluding Doom, the film aims to explore a new perspective on the Fantastic Four’s dynamic.
- Galactus as the Big Bad: Instead of Doom, the film centers on Galactus, played by Ralph Ineson, and his herald, Silver Surfer (Julia Garner), offering a cosmic threat that aligns with the 1960s comic roots Shakman wants to honor.
Why No Doctor Doom? The Bigger Picture
Shakman’s decision to sideline Doctor Doom is a bold move, given the character’s deep ties to the Fantastic Four in the comics and past films. However, it opens up exciting possibilities for the MCU’s multiverse narrative. Here’s a breakdown of why this choice makes sense and what challenges it might pose:
| Why It Works | Potential Challenges |
|---|---|
| Spotlight on the Four: Without Doom’s larger-than-life presence, the film can focus on the family dynamic of Reed Richards (Pedro Pascal), Sue Storm (Vanessa Kirby), Johnny Storm (Joseph Quinn), and Ben Grimm (Ebon Moss-Bachrach), giving their relationships room to breathe. | Fan Expectations: With Robert Downey Jr.’s casting as Doom generating massive hype, some fans might be disappointed by his absence, expecting even a brief tease in First Steps. |
| Saving Doom for Avengers: Doomsday: By reserving Doom for Avengers: Doomsday (2026), Marvel builds anticipation for his debut, ensuring he gets a grand stage rather than a rushed cameo. | Missed Setup Opportunity: A small appearance could have laid groundwork for Doom’s multiversal role, especially since First Steps is rumored to tie into Avengers: Doomsday. |
| Fresh Villain Focus: Galactus and Silver Surfer offer a cosmic spectacle that differentiates this reboot from past adaptations, aligning with Shakman’s vision of a Kubrick-inspired 1960s aesthetic. | Balancing Hype: With Doom’s absence, the film must deliver a compelling Galactus to satisfy fans eager for iconic villains. |
What This Means for Fans and the MCU
Shakman’s choice to exclude Doctor Doom from The Fantastic Four: First Steps signals a deliberate shift in the MCU’s approach to its iconic characters. By focusing on Galactus and the Fantastic Four’s cosmic adventure, the film sets itself apart from earlier adaptations that leaned heavily on Doom’s rivalry with Reed Richards. This decision also suggests Marvel is playing the long game with Downey’s Doctor Doom, likely saving his debut for a pivotal moment in Avengers: Doomsday or even Avengers: Secret Wars (2027).
Final Thoughts – Is this True?
The Fantastic Four: First Steps is shaping up to be a bold, cosmic entry in the MCU, and Matt Shakman’s decision to exclude Doctor Doom ensures the film carves its own path, but is Doom really not going to be in First Steps? Well, he may not be in the actual movie but technically maybe. Given that we have heard from many sources now that Doom will actual show up in the post credit scene it is hard to say Doom really won’t be in Fantastic Four: First Steps. However, we will all find out on July 25, 2025, when this film hits theaters.
