Doctor Doom's Absence in Fantastic Four's First Steps Teaser Trailer Explained

2025 marks a significant milestone for Marvel across various media, but none more eagerly awaited than the release of "The Fantastic Four: First Steps." This film not only launches Phase 6 of the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) but also introduces fans to Pedro Pascal's portrayal of Reed Richards and his iconic superhero family. After years of anticipation, it seems the wait for a truly remarkable Fantastic Four movie might finally be over.

The excitement is palpable with the release of the teaser trailer for "First Steps," giving us an intimate look at the core quartet and our first glimpse of antagonists such as Ralph Ineson's Galactus and John Malkovich's mysterious character. Yet, many fans are fixated on one burning question: where is Robert Downey Jr.'s Doctor Doom? Let's delve into what the trailer reveals—and what it doesn't.

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Where Is Robert Downey Jr.’s Doctor Doom?

Marvel sent shockwaves through the fandom at last year's San Diego Comic-Con by announcing that "The Avengers 5" would be renamed "The Avengers: Doomsday" and that Robert Downey Jr. would take on the role of Doctor Doom. This casting choice, given Doom's storied history with Iron Man in the comics, was both surprising and intriguing. Fans are now eager to see how "First Steps" sets the stage for Doom as the next major Avengers-level threat.

Marvel Studios is keeping their cards close to the chest, as the teaser offers no direct hints about Doom's involvement. Instead, it emphasizes the film's unique approach compared to previous iterations. Julian McMahon's Doom was central to the 2005 and 2007 "Fantastic Four" films, while Toby Kebbell's version was key to the 2015 reboot. This time, Marvel is shifting focus to Galactus, Silver Surfer, and John Malkovich's character, yet we expect "First Steps" to lay some groundwork for Doom. As one of the final MCU films before "Avengers: Doomsday" in May 2026, it must tease the upcoming villain.

A crucial question remains: from which universe does Downey's Doom originate? Given the casting choice, he's not from Earth-616. Is he from "The Fantastic Four: First Steps" universe, or is this a darker, alternate reality where Tony Stark's life took a sinister turn? Even a post-credits scene could help establish Doom's identity and his reasons for targeting the MCU's Avengers.

Regardless of Doom's role in "First Steps," whether as a supporting villain or a brief cameo, he won't overshadow the Fantastic Four's primary challenge—facing Galactus.

The Fantastic Four vs. Galactus

The teaser makes it clear that Galactus, the Devourer of Worlds, will be the Fantastic Four's main adversary. Voiced by Ralph Ineson, Galactus is a classic Marvel character created by Stan Lee and Jack Kirby, debuting in 1966's "Fantastic Four #48" and launching the "Galactus Trilogy." In this storyline, Galactus and his herald, the Silver Surfer, arrive to consume Earth, pushing the Fantastic Four to their limits.

Galactus' backstory enriches his role in the cosmic Marvel hierarchy. Originally a mortal named Galan of Taa, he survived the pre-Big Bang universe and bonded with the Sentience of the Universe to become Galactus. His purpose is to devour planets, sustaining the cycle of death and rebirth in the Marvel Universe—a necessity, albeit terrifying for those on targeted planets.

"First Steps" draws heavily from the Galactus Trilogy, presenting the Fantastic Four as seasoned heroes with a dedicated fanbase, now facing their greatest challenge yet. The question arises: how far will Reed and his family go to save Earth? In the comics, Reed uses the Ultimate Nullifier against Galactus—a weapon capable of destroying and remaking the multiverse. Will we see this weapon in the film, and how might it tie into the Multiverse Saga and Incursions?

Unlike the cloud-like depiction of Galactus in "Rise of the Silver Surfer," "First Steps" presents him in a humanoid form, towering over landmarks like the Statue of Liberty. This choice reflects a more character-driven approach, justifying the casting of Ineson.

While Galactus is prominent, his herald, the Silver Surfer, played by Julia Garner, is absent from the teaser. The Silver Surfer, introduced in the same comic as Galactus, initially scouts planets for his master but eventually rebels against him after encountering Earth. Expect a similar arc for Garner's gender-swapped version, echoing her journey from herald to hero.

Who Is John Malkovich Playing?

While Galactus and Silver Surfer are the primary antagonists, the teaser hints at another villain with a brief shot of John Malkovich. Rumors suggest he might be playing Ivan Kragoff, aka The Red Ghost, a Soviet scientist who gains powers similar to the Fantastic Four. Known for his campy origins and association with super-powered apes, Malkovich's casting as Red Ghost would be fitting, given his history with Russian roles.

Another possibility is Mole Man, another iconic FF villain rumored to appear. Shunned by society, Mole Man rules the underground Moloids and seeks to conquer the surface world. Malkovich's rugged appearance in the teaser supports this theory.

Regardless of his role, Malkovich likely plays a secondary villain, challenging the Fantastic Four early in the film. With the team already established, it's logical they'd have a roster of adversaries.

Other actors like Natasha Lyonne, Sarah Niles, and Paul Walter Hauser also have unconfirmed roles, adding to the intrigue. Share your theories on their characters in the comments.

Meet the Fantastic Four

The teaser primarily showcases the Fantastic Four themselves: Pedro Pascal as the brilliant scientist and family patriarch Reed Richards, Vanessa Kirby as the intrepid Susan Storm, Joseph Quinn as the hotheaded Johnny Storm, and Ebon Moss-Bachrach as the stubborn Ben Grimm. We also catch a glimpse of their helper robot, H.E.R.B.I.E.

The film emphasizes the family dynamic, highlighting the love and dysfunction within the team. It focuses on Ben's struggle with his monstrous transformation and Reed's guilt over causing it. The trailer suggests the Fantastic Four are already established heroes, not an origin story like previous films, though flashbacks to their origins are included.

The costumes in "First Steps" differ significantly from past iterations, adopting a blue and white color scheme reminiscent of John Byrne's '80s comics. These Space Age uniforms reflect the team's identity as scientists and adventurers rather than traditional superheroes.

Marvel's marketing has highlighted the Future Foundation, a comic book initiative by Reed to nurture young super-geniuses. This raises questions about the inclusion of younger heroes, possibly Reed and Sue's children, Franklin and Valeria. The "First Steps" title suggests themes of parenthood and raising children, hinting at Franklin's potential role in attracting Galactus to Earth.

"The Fantastic Four: First Steps" is set to hit theaters on July 25, 2025. Share your thoughts on Robert Downey Jr.'s Doctor Doom's potential appearance and other theories in the comments below.