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

Attention all True Believers! The first trailer for The Fantastic Four: First Steps has landed, and it's a visual feast. We're treated to our initial glimpse of Pedro Pascal, Vanessa Kirby, Joseph Quinn, and Ebon Moss-Bachrach embodying Marvel's First Family, alongside their robotic sidekick HERBIE. The trailer showcases a unique blend of retro-futurism that sets it apart from other MCU ventures. While we eagerly anticipate the film's release on July 25, 2025, one character towers above the rest, both literally and figuratively—Galactus, the devourer of worlds.

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

While Doctor Doom remains elusive in the trailer, it's Galactus who steals the show. Early indications suggest that The Fantastic Four: First Steps is set to deliver a portrayal of this iconic Marvel villain that's far truer to his comic book origins than past attempts, such as in Fantastic Four: Rise of the Silver Surfer. Let's explore why this film seems poised to honor this cosmic entity as he deserves.

Who Is The Devourer of Worlds? Galactus Explained

If you're not yet acquainted with Galactus, let's delve into his history in the comics. Introduced by Stan Lee and Jack Kirby in Fantastic Four #48, Galactus is a cosmic being who began life as Galan, a mortal from the universe before ours. Surviving the cataclysmic Big Bang, Galan merged with the essence of his dying universe, transforming into Galactus. This colossal entity roams the cosmos, consuming planets to sustain his existence. Notable among his heralds is the Silver Surfer, who played a crucial role in Galactus' initial encounter with the Fantastic Four.

In their first clash, the Fantastic Four were forewarned of Galactus' impending arrival by the Watcher, who broke his vow of non-interference to save Earth. Despite their efforts to stop the Silver Surfer, Galactus arrived to feast on the planet. The team managed to sway the Surfer to betray his master, and the Human Torch ventured into Galactus' worldship, Taa II, to retrieve the Ultimate Nullifier. Mr. Fantastic's threat with this device forced Galactus to spare Earth, but not before he exiled the Silver Surfer to the planet as punishment.

Galactus has since become a recurring figure in the Marvel universe, engaging the Fantastic Four multiple times and crossing paths with other heroes like Thor. Though not traditionally "evil," Galactus operates in a morally grey area, driven by survival. Yet, despite his status as one of Marvel's most fascinating antagonists, his on-screen portrayals have often fallen short—until now.

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

Galactus has graced various media, from the '90s Fantastic Four cartoon to Marvel vs. Capcom 3, but his cinematic debut in Fantastic Four: Rise of the Silver Surfer was underwhelming. The film altered his iconic design into an indistinct cloud and omitted his voice, resulting in a disappointing portrayal. However, the trailer for The Fantastic Four: First Steps hints at a faithful adaptation, closely aligning with Jack Kirby's original vision, as seen in both the trailer and a drone light show at last year's San Diego Comic-Con.

Marvel's decision to feature Galactus as the central antagonist in their Fantastic Four reboot is telling. With a roster of formidable villains at their disposal, the choice of Galactus signals a commitment to rectifying past disappointments. While Robert Downey, Jr.'s Doctor Doom is rumored to be reserved for future Avengers films, the focus here is squarely on giving Galactus the epic MCU debut he merits.

This move is particularly significant given the MCU's recent struggles in the Multiverse Saga. With many villains they've burned through, Galactus represents a high-caliber antagonist capable of revitalizing the franchise. A successful portrayal could bolster the MCU's reputation and build excitement for the upcoming Avengers: Doomsday and Avengers: Secret Wars, where the Fantastic Four are poised to play major figures.

The Fantastic Four: First Steps - Trailer 1 Stills

During the period when the Fantastic Four were in exile due to the Fox-Marvel dispute over film rights, fans expressed a keen interest in seeing the FF's villains, such as Doctor Doom, Annihilus, and Galactus, brought into the MCU. With the return of the Fantastic Four, and particularly with Ryan North's acclaimed run in the comics, there's renewed excitement. Yet, it's clear that characters like Galactus hold the potential to invigorate the MCU post-Multiverse Saga.

Galactus is undoubtedly one of the most compelling characters associated with the Fantastic Four, and it's long overdue for him to be showcased in all his live-action glory. As we approach the release of The Fantastic Four: First Steps this July, the trailer suggests that Marvel is on the right track to deliver a fitting tribute to this legendary figure.