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

2025 is poised to be a monumental year for Marvel across all media, but none more eagerly awaited than *The Fantastic Four: First Steps*. This film not only marks the commencement of Phase 6 of the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) but also finally introduces fans to Pedro Pascal's Reed Richards and his iconic superhero family. With high hopes, the decades-long anticipation for a truly stellar Fantastic Four movie may soon be fulfilled.

The newly released teaser trailer for *First Steps* has set the stage, offering a detailed look at the main quartet and our first glimpses of antagonists, including Ralph Ineson's portrayal of Galactus and John Malkovich's mysterious character. However, the burning question on many fans' minds remains: where is Robert Downey Jr.'s Doctor Doom? Let's dissect what we see and what remains hidden in this trailer.

The Fantastic Four: First Steps - Trailer 1 Stills

20 ImagesWhere Is Robert Downey Jr.'s Doctor Doom?

Marvel made waves at last year's San Diego Comic-Con with the announcement that *The Avengers 5* has been retitled *The Avengers: Doomsday* and that Doctor Doom will be portrayed by Robert Downey Jr. This casting choice, considering the rich history between Doom and Iron Man in the comics, was both unexpected and intriguing. Fans are now curious about the role *The Fantastic Four* movie will play in establishing Doom as the next major Avengers-level threat.

Marvel Studios is keeping their cards close to their chest. The teaser doesn't overtly hint at Doom's involvement, instead emphasizing a fresh approach to the Fantastic Four story. Past iterations featured Julian McMahon and Toby Kebbell as Doom in pivotal roles, but *First Steps* appears to be shifting focus towards Galactus, Silver Surfer, and John Malkovich's enigmatic character.

Despite the absence of Doom in the trailer, it's reasonable to assume *First Steps* will lay some groundwork for his character, especially given his primary association with the Fantastic Four. With *Avengers: Doomsday* scheduled for May 2026, setting up the next major villain seems imminent. A crucial question is from which universe Downey's Doom originates. Is he from the same universe as *The Fantastic Four: First Steps*, or does he hail from an alternate reality where Tony Stark's life took a darker turn? Even a brief appearance in a post-credits scene could clarify his identity and motives towards the MCU's Avengers.

Regardless of Doom's role, be it as a supporting villain or a cameo, *First Steps* is primarily about the Fantastic Four facing their own formidable challenges.

The teaser clearly indicates that Galactus, the self-proclaimed Devourer of Worlds, will be the primary adversary for the Fantastic Four. Voiced by Ralph Ineson, known for his role in *Game of Thrones*, Galactus is one of the iconic characters created by Stan Lee and Jack Kirby, first appearing in 1966's *Fantastic Four #48*.

Galactus, originally a mortal named Galan of Taa, survived the pre-Big Bang universe and bonded with the Sentience of the Universe, transforming into the cosmic entity he is today. His mission is to consume life-rich planets, a role that, while necessary in the cosmic hierarchy of the Marvel Universe, is a terrifying prospect for any world in his path.

*First Steps* draws heavily from the classic "Galactus Trilogy," presenting a well-established Fantastic Four facing their greatest challenge yet. The question remains: to what lengths will Reed and his family go to save Earth? In the comics, Reed uses the Ultimate Nullifier, a weapon capable of destroying and remaking the multiverse. Will this be featured in the film, and how will it tie into the broader Multiverse Saga and Incursions?

The film's depiction of Galactus as a humanoid figure, towering over landmarks like the Statue of Liberty, contrasts with the cloud-like form seen in *Rise of the Silver Surfer*. This suggests a more character-driven portrayal, justifying the casting of Ineson.

While Galactus is prominently featured, his herald, the Silver Surfer, played by Julia Garner, is absent from the teaser. In the comics, Silver Surfer scouts planets for Galactus but rebels after developing empathy for Earth. Expect a similar arc, albeit with a gender-swapped Surfer, reflecting her origins on Zenn-La.

While Galactus and Silver Surfer dominate the narrative, John Malkovich's brief appearance in the teaser raises speculation about his role. Rumors suggest he might portray Ivan Kragoff, known as The Red Ghost, a Soviet scientist who gains powers similar to the Fantastic Four. Alternatively, he could be Mole Man, a classic FF villain obsessed with conquering the surface world. Malkovich's character seems to fit both profiles, hinting at a secondary villain role early in the film.

Malkovich's casting remains unconfirmed, as do the roles of other actors like Natasha Lyonne, Sarah Niles, and Paul Walter Hauser. Share your theories on their characters in the comments.

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

The film emphasizes the family dynamic of the Fantastic Four, highlighting both their unity and the inherent dysfunction. Ben's struggle with his monstrous transformation and Reed's guilt over causing it are central themes. The teaser suggests *First Steps* will not be an origin story but will show the FF as established celebrity heroes. However, flashbacks to their origins, including pre-Thing Ben Grimm and the aftermath of their power-granting accident, are included.

The new costumes, sporting a blue and white color scheme reminiscent of John Byrne's '80s comics, reflect the team's identity as scientists and adventurers rather than traditional superheroes. Their Space Age uniforms are functional and tailored to each character's personality.

Marvel's marketing has hinted at the involvement of the Future Foundation, a group established by Reed in the comics to foster the next generation of super-geniuses. This raises questions about younger heroes, potentially including Reed and Sue's children, Franklin and Valeria. The title "First Steps" suggests themes of parenthood and family growth.

There's a strong possibility that young Franklin Richards will appear, given his immense power and potential connection to Galactus' interest in Earth. We'll discover more when *The Fantastic Four: First Steps* premieres on July 25, 2025.

Do you believe Robert Downey Jr.'s Doctor Doom will make an appearance in the movie? Share your predictions and theories in the comments below.