Galactus Returns in Fantastic Four: First Steps, Signaling Major Marvel Developments

Attention, True Believers! The first trailer for The Fantastic Four: First Steps has landed, and it's nothing short of spectacular. We're treated to our initial glimpse of Pedro Pascal, Vanessa Kirby, Joseph Quinn, and Ebon Moss-Bachrach embodying Marvel’s iconic First Family. Alongside them, we see the charming robot companion HERBIE and get a taste of the film's unique retro-futurism-inspired art design. The trailer sets a distinct tone, differentiating itself from other MCU projects, and has us eagerly anticipating its release on July 25, 2025. But one character towers above them all—Galactus, the devourer of worlds.

Where Is Doctor Doom In the Fantastic Four: First Steps Trailer?

While the trailer primarily focuses on the cosmic threat of Galactus, fans might be wondering about the absence of Doctor Doom. Rest assured, though we only catch a fleeting glimpse of him, Galactus is front and center, promising to stay true to his comic book roots, unlike his previous cinematic portrayal in Fantastic Four: Rise of the Silver Surfer. Let's delve into why The Fantastic Four: First Steps is poised to finally do justice to this iconic Marvel character.

Who Is The Devourer of Worlds? Galactus Explained

If you're unfamiliar with Galactus, here's a brief rundown of his history in the comics. Created by Stan Lee and Jack Kirby in Fantastic Four #48, Galactus is a cosmic entity who was once a mortal named Galan. As the sole survivor of the universe before the Big Bang, Galan merged with his universe's sentience, transforming into Galactus, the first being of the new universe. This giant figure roams the cosmos, consuming life-bearing planets to sustain himself. Galactus employs heralds like the famous Silver Surfer to seek out suitable worlds.

The first clash between Galactus and the Fantastic Four was monumental. Warned by the Watcher, who broke his vow of non-interference, the team faced the Silver Surfer but couldn't prevent him from summoning Galactus. The Human Torch ventured into Galactus' worldship, Taa II, to retrieve the Ultimate Nullifier, the only weapon capable of threatening Galactus. Mr. Fantastic's threat with the Nullifier forced Galactus to spare Earth, but not before exiling the Silver Surfer.

Since then, Galactus has been a recurring figure in the Marvel universe, confronting the Fantastic Four and other heroes like Thor. Despite not being traditionally "evil" but rather a morally ambiguous entity driven by survival, his portrayal in films has been underwhelming—until now.

The Second Coming of Galactus in The Fantastic Four: First Steps

Galactus has appeared in various media, from the '90s Fantastic Four cartoon to Marvel vs. Capcom 3. However, his cinematic debut in Fantastic Four: Rise of the Silver Surfer fell short of fans' expectations, featuring a lackluster cloud-like design and minimal presence. In contrast, The Fantastic Four: First Steps promises a faithful adaptation, closely mirroring Jack Kirby’s classic design, as hinted in the trailer and a drone light show at San Diego Comic-Con.

Marvel's choice to feature Galactus as the main antagonist in their Fantastic Four reboot is telling. With numerous FF villains to choose from, this decision signals Marvel's intent to correct past missteps and deliver a Galactus that fans deserve. While Robert Downey, Jr.'s Doctor Doom is slated for future Avengers films, the focus on Galactus in The Fantastic Four: First Steps is a welcome shift.

This move is crucial for the MCU, which has faced challenges in its Multiverse Saga. With many villains already used, Galactus represents one of the few remaining heavyweights capable of revitalizing the franchise. A successful adaptation could rejuvenate interest and set the stage for the Fantastic Four's pivotal role in the upcoming Avengers films.

The Fantastic Four: First Steps - Trailer 1 Stills

During the period when the Fantastic Four were sidelined due to the Fox-Marvel rights dispute, fans expressed more interest in seeing their rogues gallery, including Doctor Doom, Annihilus, and Galactus, in the MCU. With the FF back in the spotlight, and the positive buzz around Ryan North's current comic run, there's renewed excitement. Galactus and other FF-associated characters could be the key to reinvigorating the MCU post-Multiverse Saga.

Galactus is among the most compelling characters linked to the Fantastic Four, and it's high time he gets the live-action treatment he deserves. As we await The Fantastic Four: First Steps this July, the trailer suggests Marvel is taking promising steps toward delivering a faithful and exciting adaptation.