Joseph Quinn discusses Mole Man in Fantastic Four, confirming the long-suspected villain‘s appearance in Marvel Studios’ upcoming film, while Vanessa Kirby captivates fans with an unexpected pregnancy announcement at a promotional event. The news emerged during a fan interaction at CCXPMX 25, where cast details and plot teases for The Fantastic Four: First Steps were unveiled.
Mole Man’s Role and Villains Assembled
For months, speculation swirled that Mole Man, known from Marvel comics as Harvey Elder, would be featured in The Fantastic Four: First Steps. Joseph Quinn, set to portray Johnny Storm/Human Torch, has now openly stated that the character will be included, delighting longtime fans of the franchise. There is still uncertainty regarding whether Elder will appear solely in a montage recapping the team’s past conflicts or have an expanded role tied directly to Galactus’ assault on Earth. As of now, Paul Walter Hauser is widely believed to be the top contender for portraying Mole Man, although no official casting has been confirmed.
“It’s a certainly a very stacked cast,”
Quinn told fans at CCXPMX 25.
“We’ve got a lot of fantastic characters in there. There’s also Mole Man, who’s wonderful in it, but Galactus is the big bad.”
-Joseph Quinn, Human Torch Actor
Beyond Elder, the film aims to bring a variety of iconic faces to the screen, introducing different villains and allies, and positioning Galactus as the main threat to Earth. Details remain closely guarded, leaving fans eager for more news about the final lineup of the antagonists.
Star Power and Surprise Reveals at CCXPMX 25
The announcement event drew notable cast members including Pedro Pascal, Ebon Moss-Bachrach, Julia Garner, and Vanessa Kirby, whose appearance became a highlight beyond cinematic news. Kirby, who plays Sue Storm/Invisible Woman, revealed her real-life pregnancy, prompting waves of congratulatory messages from fans and colleagues alike.
While most attention was on the film’s content, some fans quickly speculated on what Kirby’s pregnancy could mean for interconnected Marvel projects, notably Avengers: Doomsday. History offers reassurance: Scarlett Johansson was pregnant while filming Avengers: Age of Ultron, and still played a significant role as Black Widow, suggesting Marvel Studios is prepared to adapt shooting schedules as needed.
Pedro Pascal updated those in attendance, saying he would be headed back to London to resume Avengers: Doomsday filming, reinforcing the interconnected narrative between major Marvel events. Vanessa Kirby, meanwhile, was reported to have recently been in Bahrain with other cast members, while Avengers: Secret Wars remains in pre-production and is not expected to start filming for another year.
Bringing Marvel’s First Family to Life
The Fantastic Four: First Steps situates the Marvel First Family—Reed Richards/Mister Fantastic (Pedro Pascal), Sue Storm/Invisible Woman (Vanessa Kirby), Johnny Storm/Human Torch (Joseph Quinn), and Ben Grimm/The Thing (Ebon Moss-Bachrach)—in a vibrant, retro-futuristic version of the 1960s. Set amid a landscape bursting with style and color, the film will see the team tackle their greatest threat yet while struggling to maintain their familial bonds.
As the protagonists fight to defend Earth from Galactus—a cosmic foe intent on consuming the planet—and his enigmatic Herald, the Silver Surfer (portrayed by Julia Garner), personal stakes for the family become greater than ever. Supporting roles have been filled by Paul Walter Hauser, John Malkovich, and Natasha Lyonne, though their character identities are still under wraps. In addition, Robert Downey Jr. is rumored to return as Doctor Doom, potentially linking the film directly to future Marvel releases such as Avengers: Doomsday.
“He’s the big, evil, planet-gobbling space God. And he’s played brilliantly by the wonderful Ralph [Ineson],”
Quinn added.
“Silver Surfer, played by the wonderful Julia Garner…we’re very lucky to work with her. She’s excellent in the film. There [are] lots of brilliant characters.”
-Joseph Quinn, Human Torch Actor
Behind the Scenes and What Lies Ahead
The script for The Fantastic Four: First Steps was developed through collaboration between director Matt Shakman, Josh Friedman (co-writer on Avatar: The Way of Water), Cam Squires (WandaVision), and Eric Pearson, who joined later for a final polish. The integration of experienced creative voices suggests a story aiming for both emotional intensity and authentic Marvel flair.
The much-anticipated release of The Fantastic Four: First Steps is scheduled for July 25, 2025, in theaters. As excitement builds, fans continue to speculate about cast roles, future character appearances, and the film’s broader impact on the Marvel Cinematic Universe. With a compelling lineup, dramatic personal revelations, and classic villains like Mole Man now confirmed, anticipation for Marvel’s First Family’s debut in their new era runs high.
