While details about Avengers: Doomsday remain somewhat sparse, one thing has been clear for months: the Fantastic Four will play a pivotal role in the film. Recent insights reveal that Pedro Pascal’s portrayal of Reed Richards will not be about stepping into a leadership role in whichever Avengers team appears in the film.
In a July interview, Fantastic Four: First Steps director Matt Shakman described Reed Richards as undergoing a significant transformation—from a nerdy scientist to a protective husband and father, ultimately leading the Avengers. This sparked much discussion online, particularly because, in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), it’s Sam Wilson and Yelena Belova who are at the helm of the two separate Avengers teams. Shakman later clarified that his comments did not pertain directly to Reed’s specific storyline in Doomsday, but rather the character’s broader arc.
Pedro Pascal offered his own perspective, calling Shakman’s comments “a bit of a mislead.” He elaborated that in the comics, Reed occasionally finds himself involved with the Avengers and may be asked to take on a leadership role. However, he emphasized that this is not necessarily an indicator of his character’s path in the upcoming movies. Pascal assured fans that his statement was entirely genuine and not meant to avoid spoilers.
Could Pedro Pascal lead the MCU’s new Avengers? The “Fantastic Four” star responds. pic.twitter.com/mH4UqAlmRA
— AP Entertainment (@APEntertainment) July 24, 2025
In the comics, Reed and the Fantastic Four have had various interactions with the Avengers, sharing team-ups and roles over the years. Recently, Reed was portrayed as a member of the Illuminati, stepping in to address the multiverse’s Incursion challenges in Jonathan Hickman and Mike Deodato Jr.’s New Avengers. Adaptations of the Incursion storyline are in the works for Doomsday and the sequel Secret Wars, featuring fellow Illuminati members Professor X and Beast. As one of the leading figures on the Avengers side, Reed’s expertise will be crucial, and fans are eager to see how this unfolds when Avengers: Doomsday hits theaters on December 18, 2026.
What does Reed Richards’ role in Avengers: Doomsday signify for the future of the MCU?
Reed’s involvement could indicate a broader narrative alignment among Marvel’s franchises, particularly as they delve into multiverse themes.
Is there a connection between the Fantastic Four and the Avengers in the comics?
Yes, historically, members of the Fantastic Four have both joined the Avengers and collaborated with them in various comic arcs over the decades.
How is the character of Reed Richards different in the MCU compared to the comics?
The MCU adaptation focuses on his family-oriented values while maintaining his scientific genius, reflecting a deeper emotional core.
Will we see more characters from the Illuminati in the new Marvel films?
Yes, with characters like Professor X and Beast already confirmed, audiences are likely to see more involvement from the Illuminati in upcoming Marvel narratives.
If you are as excited about these developments as we are, continue exploring the latest insights into Marvel, Star Wars, and more at Moyens I/O!