Marvel Reveals Shocking Fifth Member of Fantastic Four – You Won’t Believe Who It Is!

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It’s been confirmed by Marvel Studios that a significant secondary character will join the Fantastic Four as an honorary member in July. The film, titled “The Fantastic Four: First Steps“, has announced this addition to the team which already consists of Reed Richards, Sue Storm, Johnny Storm, and Ben Grimm. Although the movie primarily follows these four characters, this newcomer will also have a crucial part to play in the storyline.

Herbie, the cherished robot helper, has been given honorary membership in the Fantastic Four of the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU). With promotional activities underway, there’s an exclusive collectible card set available only at Regal cinemas for the movie The Fantastic Four: First Steps. This set includes Herbie donning the team’s famous “4” emblem alongside the main characters. This move is noteworthy as it emphasizes Herbie’s role as a crucial team member, both in merchandise and in the storyline itself.

In a recent interview with Empire, director Matt Shakman highlighted the significant role of this beloved robot character, voiced by Matthew Wood. He stated that HERBIE is not merely comic relief, but holds equal importance as any other cast member, explaining, “He’s absolutely as vital and alive as any other member of the family.” Shakman portrayed HERBIE as a faithful and occasionally overburdened companion, yet one who undeniably belongs to our fictional family.

“He plays an equally vital role as any other cast member, showing signs of being both lively and slightly underappreciated as a robot. Nevertheless, he’s considered a cherished family member. His endearing nature is undeniable…He serves as Reed’s reliable partner in the lab, capable of aiding him in various experiments at all times. Whether they’re in New York City or exploring space, he remains by his side.

It’s worth noting that this character has previously been depicted as a regular team member. In fact, back in the 1978 animated series called “The New Fantastic Four,” HERBIE was presented as “the newest addition to the group” (as reported by Polygon), stepping in for the Human Torch in a more child-friendly lineup. Now, it appears that Marvel Studios is drawing upon this past portrayal and incorporating it into its current cinematic universe.

The Fantastic Four: Initial Journey” – This upcoming Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) movie is slated for release after “Thunderbolts”, marking the beginning of Phase Six on July 25, 2025. The film will be helmed by Matt Shakman, who directed “WandaVision”. The principal cast includes new additions to the MCU such as Pedro Pascal (portraying Reed Richards), Vanessa Kirby (Sue Storm), Joseph Quinn (Johnny Storm), and Ebon Moss-Bachrach (Ben Grimm). Ralph Ineson and Julia Garner will play the main antagonists. Marvel has hinted that “Initial Journey” is not a retelling of their origin story, but instead offers a daring and innovative interpretation of the legendary team. The recent MCU post-credits scene not only foreshadows “Avengers: Doomsday”, but also teases its own significant Fantastic Four revelation.

Is HERBIE An Avenger Now?

In the upcoming movie “Avengers: Doomsday”, it is confirmed that all four key team members will make an appearance. Additionally, Kirby and Moss-Bachrach have been seen on set with other Avengers, indicating a significant role for the Fantastic Four in the film. Given that their ship was seen in the post-credits scene of “Thunderbolts”, it’s reasonable to assume HERBIE is still with them as they enter the MCU. If so, it seems likely that HERBIE will make his Avengers debut in “Doomsday”.

It appears that Herbie won’t be taking on Robert Downey Jr.’s Doctor Doom, but instead might earn an honorary Avenger status alongside the Fantastic Four. This would further solidify his role not only within the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) but also in its most significant crossover event since 2019. The impact of Herbie is already resonating with fans, making it likely that he’ll quickly become a beloved character when he makes his debut in First Steps.

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2025-05-18 10:04