The Fantastic Four: First Steps introduced many elements important to the future of the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), including a hidden appearance by the villain Doctor Doom. Fans have long speculated whether the hooded figure appearing in the film is actually portrayed by Robert Downey Jr., and this has now been confirmed.
Details About Doctor Doom’s Role and Robert Downey Jr.’s Involvement
Doctor Doom does not serve as the main antagonist in The Fantastic Four: First Steps. Instead, the villain’s brief appearance happens after a significant time jump of four years toward the film’s end. During this scene, Sue Richards, played by Vanessa Kirby, returns with a book to find her young son Franklin Richards interacting with a mysterious hooded person at the Baxter Building. The villain’s face is kept hidden from view.
Vanessa Kirby revealed to Variety that Robert Downey Jr. is indeed the actor behind this secretive Doctor Doom cameo. She described Downey Jr.’s consistent presence on set and his invaluable leadership, stating,
“Yeah! Robert’s never not been on set. He’s always there. He is our leader. We call him our Godfather,”
highlighting his vital role during production.
Kirby further praised the collaboration with Downey Jr. and the Russo brothers, who reportedly directed the post-credit scene featuring Doctor Doom, which helps to set up future MCU storylines. Kirby expressed admiration, saying,
“He’s looked after us. It’s such a joy working with the Russos and him because they’ve had such deep collaboration for so long. Robert is just doing incredible work. I’m so excited.”
Implications for the MCU and Future Storylines
While the full integration of Doctor Doom and the Fantastic Four into the MCU remains unclear, Marvel appears committed to connecting these characters with the broader universe. This is further hinted at by the superhero team’s appearance in the post-credit scene of the film Thunderbolts. With Robert Downey Jr., who famously portrayed Iron Man, now returning in this new capacity, fans can expect his involvement will play a significant role as the MCU expands.
The Fantastic Four: First Steps is currently available in theatres, marking the beginning of a new chapter that promises to deepen the MCU’s narrative complexity and character roster with exciting developments to come.
