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

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

by Emma Apr 21,2025

Attention, True Believers! The first trailer for The Fantastic Four: First Steps is here, and it's packed with exciting reveals. We're treated to our initial glimpse of Pedro Pascal, Vanessa Kirby, Joseph Quinn, and Ebon Moss-Bachrach as Marvel's First Family, alongside the charming robot companion HERBIE. The trailer showcases a unique retro-futurism-inspired art design that sets it apart from other MCU projects. With the film slated to hit theaters on July 25, 2025, fans are buzzing with anticipation, especially about the towering presence of Galactus, the devourer of worlds.

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

While we eagerly await more details about Doctor Doom, the trailer gives us a fleeting yet promising look at Galactus. This brief appearance suggests that The Fantastic Four: First Steps is set to deliver a faithful rendition of this iconic Marvel character.

Who Is The Devourer of Worlds? Galactus Explained

For those new to the Marvel universe, let's dive into the history in the comics of Galactus. Originally Galan, a mortal from a universe before our own, he became Galactus after merging with the sentience of his dying universe during the Big Bang. This transformation turned him into a colossal figure who roams the cosmos, consuming life-bearing planets to sustain his existence. Galactus employs heralds, such as the famous Silver Surfer, to find these planets.

In his first encounter with the Fantastic Four, as depicted in the comics, the team was warned by the Watcher, who broke his vow of non-interference to save Earth. Despite their efforts, the Fantastic Four couldn't prevent the Silver Surfer from summoning Galactus. The Human Torch ventured into Galactus' worldship, Taa II, to retrieve the Ultimate Nullifier, the only weapon capable of threatening the devourer. Mr. Fantastic's use of the Nullifier forced Galactus to spare Earth, though he exiled the Silver Surfer as punishment.

Since then, Galactus has remained a pivotal figure in the Marvel universe, engaging with the Fantastic Four and other heroes like Thor. His morally ambiguous nature—consuming planets to survive rather than out of malice—makes him a fascinating antagonist. Despite his prominence in the comics, previous film adaptations have not fully captured his essence.

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

Galactus has appeared in various media, from the '90s Fantastic Four cartoon to Marvel vs. Capcom 3. However, his cinematic debut in 2007's Fantastic Four: Rise of the Silver Surfer was underwhelming. The film deviated from his iconic comic design, portraying him as an indistinct cloud rather than the regal figure with purple armor and a grand helmet.

The trailer for The Fantastic Four: First Steps hints at a significant improvement. The brief glimpse and a drone light show at last year's San Diego Comic-Con suggest a commitment to Jack Kirby's original design. Marvel's choice to feature Galactus as the main villain in this reboot, amidst plenty of FF baddies, signals a desire to rectify past disappointments. With Robert Downey, Jr.'s Doctor Doom potentially reserved for future Avengers films, the focus can remain squarely on giving Galactus the cinematic debut he deserves.

This focus is crucial, especially given the MCU's recent struggles within the Multiverse Saga. With many villains they've burned through, Galactus stands out as a character with the gravitas to rejuvenate the franchise. A successful adaptation could reignite excitement for the MCU, particularly ahead of the next two Avengers films where the Fantastic Four will be major figures.

The Fantastic Four: First Steps - Trailer 1 Stills

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During the time when the Fantastic Four were in exile due to the Fox-Marvel rights dispute, fans expressed more interest in seeing the FF's rogues gallery, including Doctor Doom, Annihilus, and Galactus, than the team itself. Now, with the Fantastic Four back in the spotlight, and Ryan North's current run on the comics receiving praise, there's renewed enthusiasm. Galactus and other characters associated with the FF could be the key to revitalizing the MCU post-Multiverse Saga.

Galactus remains one of the most compelling characters linked to the Fantastic Four. It's high time we witness his grandeur in live-action. As we approach the July release, the trailer for The Fantastic Four: First Steps suggests that Marvel is taking the right steps toward a successful adaptation.