Fantastic Four: First Steps Director Confirms No MCU Cameos

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Director Matt Shakman has confirmed a new detail about “The Fantastic Four: First Steps” that addresses a widely discussed theory among fans. The film will not include cameos from other Marvel heroes based on their original Silver Age comic designs, as some had speculated due to the movie’s setting in an alternate 1960s retro-futurist reality. This theory suggested that the multiverse could allow for a fun exploration of famous Marvel characters originating during the 1960s era. However, it appears this will not be the case with “First Steps”.

While it’s exciting to anticipate a 1960s-style Iron Man or Spider-Man in “The Fantastic Four: First Steps”, it’s important to adjust your expectations. As Matt Shakman shared with Empire, this film won’t include any other Marvel cameos at the moment. However, future encounters with other MCU heroes are planned, but for now, the world of “The Fantastic Four: First Steps” is similar to a superhero movie universe prior to the MCU, where the Fantastic Four are the sole heroes for the time being. In Shakman’s words:

“The Fantastic Four: First Steps” doesn’t include any Marvel cameos at the moment, but future encounters with other MCU heroes are planned. For now, the universe is similar to a superhero movie universe prior to the MCU, where the Fantastic Four are the only heroes.

In many ways, we are each a unique cosmos, and that’s both wondrous and empowering. There’s no one else stepping in as superheroes, no hidden Easter eggs to find, and no unexpected encounters with Iron Man or the like. For now, this is our individual universe. While I appreciate the interwoven Marvel Universe, what we get to create here is something entirely novel and distinct. One day, our world may connect with others, but for now, we’re exploring our very own little corner of existence.

In the upcoming movie “Avengers: Doomsday,” it is certain that The Fantastic Four will intersect with the established timeline of the Marvel Cinematic Universe. This film will depict the heroes teaming up with other powerhouses such as The Avengers, the X-Men, the Wakandans, and the Thunderbolts in a battle against Doctor Doom. In essence, this places The Fantastic Four in a situation similar to the Guardians of the Galaxy during the Infinity Saga, where their cosmic adventures kept them isolated from the main MCU narrative until “Avengers: Infinity War.” Paul Walter Hauser, who plays an undisclosed role in “The Fantastic Four: First Steps,” has likened this film to “Guardians of the Galaxy” due to its potential impact on the broader MCU.

A World With Just the Fantastic Four Is What the MCU Needs Right Now

As a devoted fan, I can’t help but feel that integrating 1960s-style appearances of the X-Men and Avengers into “The Fantastic Four: First Steps” might be a bit too much, especially considering this is their grand entrance into the Marvel Cinematic Universe. With the storied history of past live-action attempts falling short, it’s crucial for the Fantastic Four to make a lasting impact on viewers. By positioning them as the lone heroes in their universe and pitting them against the formidable threat of Galactus, Marvel can effectively showcase the team’s exceptional abilities and camaraderie. It seems wiser for Marvel to prioritize making audiences fall in love with The Fantastic Four rather than relying on cameos and Easter eggs.

While it’s not guaranteed that The Fantastic Four: First Steps won’t have connections to Marvel Comics history, there will likely be numerous callbacks and references to the comics. It’s highly possible that the film’s post-credit scene might introduce Robert Downey Jr.’s Doctor Doom, as Avengers: Doomsday is currently being filmed. The Russo brothers may even shoot a brief scene for the post-credits of The Fantastic Four: First Steps, which could be attached before its July 2025 release date. Fans won’t have to wait long to witness the Fantastic Four integrating into the larger Marvel Cinematic Universe, and they might finally see anticipated interactions between characters such as Invisible Woman and Namor, Human Torch and Spider-Man, Thing and the Hulk, and Mister Fantastic and Doctor Doom.

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2025-04-07 20:04