Julia Garner is introducing a unique version of the Silver Surfer in the Marvel Cinematic Universe through her role in The Fantastic Four: First Steps. Set within the Earth-828 alternate reality, this iteration of the classic character diverges from familiar origins, featuring a gender-swapped Silver Surfer named Shalla-Bal, who serves as the herald to the devouring cosmic entity Galactus. This series is scheduled to debut in theaters on July 25, presenting a retro-futuristic 1960s vision distinct from the primary MCU timeline.
In this new storyline, Shalla-Bal inherits the characteristic silver skin and cosmic powers traditionally associated with Norrin Radd in Marvel lore. Unlike the comics where Norrin Radd becomes Galactus’s herald to protect Shalla-Bal and their homeworld Zenn-La, this reimagined Silver Surfer undertakes the role directly as a powerful figure traveling on a flying board to locate energy-abundant planets for her master, portrayed by Ralph Ineson. This fresh perspective offers fans an innovative look at an established cosmic hero.
Insights from Julia Garner on the Character’s Unique Background
During an interview with ComicBook.com, Julia Garner discussed the creative decisions behind her character and the MCU’s handling of multiple universes. When asked if Norrin Radd exists within the Earth-828 timeline, she confirmed that discussions took place but remained tight-lipped about specific details. This openness suggests potential complexity in the multiverse dynamics surrounding the Silver Surfer’s identity in this version.
“We had some discussions. I don’t want to give away too much. But yeah, we had discussions about that.”
—Julia Garner, Actress
Garner clarified that Shalla-Bal’s story in this series does not mirror Norrin Radd’s classic origin as first established in 1968’s Silver Surfer #1 by Stan Lee and John Buscema, where Radd’s transformation and subsequent departure from Zenn-La serve as pivotal events. Instead, this Silver Surfer stands independently as a new cosmic agent in the MCU’s alternate reality.
Although the Silver Surfer is traditionally a male role, Garner highlighted that her character is not simply a gender-swapped version of Norrin Radd. To prepare for the role, she conducted in-depth research into the comics, including alternate universe interpretations where Shalla-Bal herself becomes a Surfer. Notably, in the Earth X alternate universe, Shalla-Bal adopts the silver-skinned role alongside Radd, informing Garner’s portrayal.
Reflecting on the responsibility of such a role, Garner emphasized how balancing the source material with the script was crucial to authentically represent the character’s legacy and new edge.
“Obviously, the script is almost like the bible in a way for shooting, but then you do the extra work. And you get that from other people. But you really have to do that and search that on your own in a way,”
“It was just so interesting finding out different things about Shalla-Bal and digging deep with that. My first initial reaction was the same as like [everyone’s]. I wasn’t quite familiar. I was like, ‘Wait, wasn’t Silver Surfer a man?’ And then it’s like, ‘Oh, no, it’s different. It’s Shalla-Bal, it’s a different kind of Silver Surfer.’ So really educating myself with that was important.”
—Julia Garner, Actress
Future Prospects for Shalla-Bal in the MCU
Looking ahead, the possibility of this version of the Silver Surfer returning in the Marvel Cinematic Universe remains a hopeful topic for both fans and the actress. The post-credits scene of Thunderbolts hinted at significant multiverse interactions, showing the Fantastic Four’s spaceship entering the Sacred Timeline, which could connect the Earth-828 narrative to the primary MCU continuity.
“Wishful thinking that we’ll be back in the MCU. I’d love to do a proper scene with [Ineson’s Galactus], that’d be fun.”
—Julia Garner, Actress
The Fantastic Four: First Steps features a prominent cast including Pedro Pascal, Vanessa Kirby, Joseph Quinn, and Ebon Moss-Bachrach, alongside Garner and Ralph Ineson. Together, they bring to life this reimagined cosmic tale, set to expand the MCU’s multiverse and cosmic storytelling in theaters this summer.
Exploring a Retro-Futuristic 1960s Earth-828 Universe
The series’ Earth-828 timeline is part of Marvel’s exploration of alternate realities, offering a retro-futuristic aesthetic rooted in the 1960s while reinterpreting classic characters. This setting provides a distinct backdrop that contrasts with the main MCU timeline’s more contemporary tone. By situating Shalla-Bal’s Silver Surfer here, Marvel adds a new layer of narrative intrigue and cosmic mythos for viewers to explore.
This approach not only honors the original comics’ foundations but also opens creative space for redefining iconic characters like Silver Surfer, reflecting changing perspectives and storytelling flexibility in the expanding MCU.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Does Julia Garner have a disability?
A. When she was young, Julia Garner experienced epilepsy and had learning challenges. Because of this, she went to Eagle Hill School, a private institution in Greenwich, Connecticut, that specializes in education for students who learn uniquely. At 14, she started acting classes to help her become less shy.
Q. What did Anna Delvey think of Julia Garner?
A. “Anna Sorokin, also known as Delvey, described Garner as really kind. She mentioned Garner visited her and found her to be a very pleasant person. Sorokin, 31, said they only met once, during which she requested the actress to attempt her well-known accent.”
Q. Why does Julia Garner have an accent?
A. Garner describes starting with a German accent and then mixing in Russian and other European or American accents based on Delvey’s company. To prepare for her role as the con-woman, Garner met with Delvey and focused on using her accent, designer outfits, a wig, and fake teeth.
Q. Did Julia Garner wear a prosthetic?
A. In Inventing Anna, Garner had to change her appearance for her role. She wore a wig throughout the filming and used prosthetic teeth for the gap.
