The recent release of The Fantastic Four: First Steps unveiled Pedro Pascal’s portrayal of Reed Richards and hinted at the arrival of a perilous new villain in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU). As the Fantastic Four face threats alongside iconic characters like Robert Downey Jr.’s Doctor Doom, subtle clues in the film suggest that an even more dangerous adversary, stemming from Reed Richards himself, could soon enter the MCU landscape.
Following the Fantastic Four’s encounter with Galactus, Reed briefly considers a dark solution involving his son Franklin, though he immediately dismisses the idea. This glimpse into Reed’s troubled thoughts lays the foundation for the possibility of a darker Reed variant emerging in future Marvel stories. This alternate version, known as The Maker in the comics, could soon be introduced to challenge the heroes in upcoming MCU installments.
Hints Toward a Dark Reed Variant Emerging in the MCU
In The Fantastic Four: First Steps, Reed Richards struggles with grim ideas about saving the world, even contemplating handing his son over to Galactus, the world devourer. While he ultimately rejects such measures, this portrayal establishes that Reed wrestles with morally troubling thoughts. Marvel Comics has explored a similar concept through The Maker, an alternate version of Reed from the Ultimate Universe, who uses his genius not to save but to control and dominate the cosmos.
The Maker begins as a benevolent Mr. Fantastic but experiences life-altering tragedies that harden him into a ruthless mastermind. Unlike the heroic Reed, The Maker’s goal is to wield control over the universe rather than protect it. With The Fantastic Four: First Steps setting the stage for Reed’s darker potential, Marvel Studios appears to be planting seeds to introduce this sinister alter ego, possibly in the upcoming movies Avengers: Doomsday or Secret Wars.
The Maker’s Role in Marvel’s Secret Wars and the Multiverse Crisis
The Maker’s presence would align well with the MCU’s planned adaptation of the Secret Wars storyline, which involves universes facing destruction through incursions. In the 2015 comics, The Maker collaborates with the villainous group called the Cabal to eliminate worlds in order to protect the Ultimate Universe. After the multiverse collapses, The Maker reluctantly allies with his heroic counterpart on Doctor Doom’s Battleworld before ultimately betraying him.
Equipped with Reed Richards’ unparalleled intellect and an unflinching willingness to cross ethical boundaries, The Maker has proven to be a formidable foe who has repeatedly returned from defeat. This persistence raises expectations that The Maker could become a significant antagonist in the MCU’s upcoming Phase 7, especially as the Russo brothers have hinted that the Secret Wars event will serve as a “new beginning” for the franchise.
The Significance of Introducing The Maker as a Major Villain
If introduced, The Maker could serve as an overarching villain who governs the new universe emerging from the Secret Wars saga. Much like his comic counterpart ruling the reformed Ultimate Universe, this Reed variant might become the central force opposing the Avengers, bringing personal stakes due to his connection to a beloved hero. Casting Pedro Pascal in this role is likely to add complexity and charisma, creating a villain fans find compelling and memorable.
Director Matt Shakman’s The Fantastic Four: First Steps also debuted other key characters including Sue Storm, portrayed by Vanessa Kirby; Johnny Storm, played by Joseph Quinn; and Ben Grimm, brought to life by Ebon Moss-Bachrach. Together, they confront Galactus (voiced by Ralph Ineson) and his herald, Silver Surfer (Julia Garner), setting the stage for expanded stories within this new MCU chapter.
Looking Ahead to the Impact on the MCU
The possibility of The Maker joining the MCU adds a new layer to Marvel’s evolving narrative, particularly as multiverse and variant storylines gain prominence. His introduction as a dark mirror to Reed Richards may add moral complexity and heighten tension among the heroes, enriching the stakes of future team-ups. As fans await Avengers: Doomsday and Secret Wars, the anticipation grows around whether Pedro Pascal’s Reed Richards will fully embrace this darker path and unleash one of Marvel’s most dangerous villains yet.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Can Pedro Pascal have kids?
A. The actor is single, childless, and isn’t interested in having kids. Yet, he often portrays father figures in his roles. Fans have created a whole online persona for him based on this, and he not only knows about it, but he also embraces it.
Q. Does Pedro Pascal support LGBTQ?
A. Pedro Pascal used Instagram to show his support for young people in the LGBTQ+ community.
Q. Why is Pedro Pascal a babygirl?
A. In today’s language, “babygirl” is used to describe a man who is both vulnerable and gentle. This term is often linked to men like Mescal and Pascal and is generally seen as a compliment, emphasizing their attractiveness. The term also hints at a bit of naivety in the person being described.
