The Fantastic Four: First Steps Sequel: 7 Shocking Fan-Casts For The MCU's Next Cosmic Villains

The Fantastic Four's arrival in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) with First Steps is arguably the most anticipated debut of the entire Multiverse Saga, and the conversation is already shifting to the inevitable sequel. As of December 10, 2025, with the main cast of Pedro Pascal, Vanessa Kirby, Joseph Quinn, and Ebon Moss-Bachrach locked in, fan speculation has moved beyond who will play the heroes and is now laser-focused on the next generation of cosmic-level threats the team will face in their second outing.

A follow-up film is reportedly in early development, and to truly test the 'First Family' of Marvel, the sequel must introduce a villain even more formidable and complex than the first film's antagonist. The most compelling sequel theories point toward major cosmic, psychological, and multiversal threats, opening the door for some truly inspired and shocking fan-castings for these iconic new roles.

The Fantastic Four: First Steps Confirmed Main Cast & Sequel Context

Before diving into the sequel's new faces, it is crucial to establish the foundation. The casting for The Fantastic Four: First Steps has set a sophisticated, family-focused tone, which will define the sequel's emotional stakes. This confirmed ensemble, combined with the rumored cosmic setting of the first film, sets the stage for villains who can challenge them both intellectually and personally.

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• Reed Richards / Mr. Fantastic: Pedro Pascal
• Sue Storm / Invisible Woman: Vanessa Kirby
• Johnny Storm / Human Torch: Joseph Quinn
• Ben Grimm / The Thing: Ebon Moss-Bachrach

The sequel, which some fans are already dubbing Fantastic Four: Second Steps, will likely explore the fallout from their first major adventure. This leads to a rich pool of potential antagonists, from the ruler of the Negative Zone to a terrifying multiversal variant of their own leader, Mr. Fantastic.

The Most Requested Fancasts for the Cosmic Sequel Villains

The MCU’s strength lies in its ability to cast A-list talent in complex villain roles. For the Fantastic Four sequel, the antagonists must be able to match the gravitas of Pedro Pascal's Reed Richards and the intensity of Vanessa Kirby's Sue Storm. These three characters represent the pinnacle of fan speculation for the next major threat.

1. Annihilus: The Sovereign of the Negative Zone

If First Steps introduces the concept of the Negative Zone, the sequel's most logical move is to unleash its tyrannical ruler, Annihilus. Annihilus is a terrifying, insectoid being who wields the Cosmic Control Rod, making him a major cosmic powerhouse. The role requires an actor with a commanding voice and intense screen presence, even if the character is primarily CGI or motion-captured.

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• Top Fan-Cast: Michael C. Hall

Hall, famous for his roles in Dexter and Six Feet Under, possesses a chilling, controlled delivery that fans believe would perfectly suit the calculating, megalomaniacal nature of Annihilus. His voice acting ability would be key for a mostly-CGI character.

• Alternative Fancasts:

Other popular names include the intense and versatile Giancarlo Esposito, who has long been rumored for an MCU villain role, and the Oscar-winning veteran Javier Bardem, whose imposing presence would translate well to a cosmic tyrant.

2. The Maker: The Dark Multiversal Reed Richards

One of the most thrilling and complex villain possibilities is The Maker, the evil, hyper-intelligent variant of Reed Richards from the Ultimate Universe (Earth-1610). This character is a master manipulator who views the entire multiverse as his experiment, providing a perfect foil for Pedro Pascal's heroic Reed.

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• Top Fan-Cast: Miles Teller

In a meta-twist, many fans suggest casting Miles Teller, who previously played Reed Richards in the 2015 Fantastic Four film. The idea is that an actor known for a 'failed' Reed Richards iteration could return as the 'Ultimate' evil version, playing on the audience's knowledge of the character's cinematic history.

• Alternative Fancasts:

Another popular choice is Glenn Howerton, known for his charismatic and unhinged performance in It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia. His ability to switch between charming and terrifying makes him a perfect fit for a brilliant scientist who has lost his moral compass.

3. Psycho-Man: The Master of Emotional Control

Psycho-Man offers a unique, psychologically-driven threat, which would challenge the family dynamic established in First Steps. This diminutive alien entity uses a suit and a control box to manipulate emotions, inducing fear, hate, and doubt, making him a perfect villain to chip away at the team's mental unity.

• Top Fan-Cast: Jason Clarke

Jason Clarke is frequently cited in fan discussions for his ability to play menacing, emotionally volatile, yet intelligent characters. His intense gaze and dramatic range make him an ideal candidate to voice and embody the master of psychological warfare.

• Alternative Fancasts:

The role is less about physical presence and more about a chilling, calculating voice, leading to suggestions for character actors known for their deep, unsettling performances, such as Ben Mendelsohn or Walton Goggins.

The Darkest Fancast: Vanessa Kirby as Malice

The most compelling and unique sequel storyline would involve a personal attack on the team's heart: Sue Storm. The villain Malice is the dark persona of the Invisible Woman, a manifestation of her repressed anger and darker impulses, often brought out by external manipulation (like Psycho-Man's). This storyline allows Vanessa Kirby to explore a dual role, showcasing her incredible range.

• The Ultimate Fancast: Vanessa Kirby

The best actor for Malice is the one already cast: Vanessa Kirby. The actress herself has publicly stated her desire to play the character, telling reporters she is "dying to play Malice" in a future MCU project. This makes the Malice storyline a high-probability event for the sequel, allowing Kirby to deliver a truly transformative performance as a villain who is literally the dark side of the hero.

Fancasting the Future of the Richards Family: Franklin and Valeria

The sequel is also expected to introduce or age up Reed and Sue's children, Franklin Richards and Valeria Richards. Franklin is a powerful mutant with reality-warping abilities, and Valeria is a super-genius who rivals her father. Their presence would cement the 'First Family' dynamic and raise the stakes significantly.

While no specific child actors are trending, the discussion centers on their age. Rumors suggest Marvel may cast slightly older children rather than infants, allowing them to be more active participants in the story. This would require young actors who can portray both immense intelligence (Valeria) and burgeoning, frightening power (Franklin).

• Valeria Richards Fancast Profile: A young actress with a sharp, inquisitive demeanor, capable of delivering complex scientific dialogue.
• Franklin Richards Fancast Profile: A young actor who can portray a sense of innocence mixed with a barely contained, terrifying cosmic power.

The sequel to The Fantastic Four: First Steps is poised to be a pivotal moment for the MCU. By introducing high-stakes, complex antagonists like Annihilus, The Maker, or Malice, the film can solidify the Fantastic Four as the new cornerstone of the cinematic universe. The fan-casts of Michael C. Hall, Miles Teller, and the prospect of Vanessa Kirby's own dark turn as Malice are a testament to the excitement surrounding the team's future.