Just before the digital release of The Fantastic Four: First Steps on September 23, the film’s post-credits scene emerged online in high definition, unveiling a compelling moment that sets the stage for future Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) developments. The scene, set four years after the main events, features Sue Storm reading to her son, Franklin Richards, before suddenly encountering Doctor Doom unmasked. This reveal confirms Robert Downey Jr. as Victor Von Doom, marking a highly anticipated debut for the iconic villain in the MCU.
Details of the Post-Credits Interaction and Its Implications
In the scene, after Sue Storm briefly steps away, she returns to find Doctor Doom kneeling beside Franklin. Doom, notably without his mask—which appears simpler than previously shown in promotional materials—reaches out to the boy, raising questions about his intentions. Is he attempting to heal Franklin’s scarred hand or does he seek to capture the child wielding reality-altering powers for sinister purposes? The scenario introduces tension and uncertainty, emphasizing Doom’s complex role.
This pivotal footage was filmed during the production of Avengers: Doomsday by the Russo Brothers, suggesting that it could play an important role in the story of that upcoming film. Whether this moment happens concurrently with, or prior to, the events in Avengers: Doomsday has not been clarified yet, leaving fans eager to see how it will connect with the larger MCU narrative.
Creative Team Confirms Downey Jr.’s Role as Doom
Director Matt Shakman of The Fantastic Four: First Steps and actress Vanessa Kirby, who portrays Sue Storm, have both confirmed that Robert Downey Jr. portrayed Doctor Doom in this key scene. This affirmation dispels any doubts about the casting and confirms that Downey Jr. donned the iconic cloak for the role. The identity of Doom in the MCU has been a subject of speculation, and this confirmation adds significant weight to the character’s future significance.
Speculation Surrounding Doctor Doom’s Origins and Multiverse Connection
One of the largest mysteries the scene presents is whether Doom has traveled from an alternate reality or if he represents Earth 828’s Variant, potentially setting him up as the primary antagonist for the Multiverse Saga. The latter theory seems plausible, especially since the film heavily hinted at Latveria’s presence, Doom’s traditional homeland. This introduces a layered narrative concerning his motives and alliances within the multiverse framework that Marvel Studios is exploring.
Overview of The Fantastic Four: First Steps and Its Narrative Context
The Fantastic Four: First Steps introduces Marvel’s First Family, including 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), immersed in a richly detailed 1960s-inspired retro-futuristic world. The heroes confront the threat of Galactus, a cosmic entity bent on consuming Earth, supported by his enigmatic Herald, the Silver Surfer (Julia Garner). Amidst this epic struggle, familial bonds are tested alongside the planet‘s survival.
Additional cast members include Natasha Lyonne as Rachel Rozman, Paul Walter Hauser as Harvey Elder/Mole Man, Sarah Niles as Lynne Nichols, and Mark Gatiss as Ted Gilbert. Although John Malkovich was initially cast as Red Ghost, his scenes were cut due to limited runtime. The film, scripted by Josh Friedman, Eric Pearson, Jeff Kaplan, and Ian Springer, is directed by Matt Shakman, highlighting Marvel Studios’ effort to craft a unique and compelling superhero introduction.
Release Information and Broader MCU Implications
The Fantastic Four: First Steps will be available digitally from September 23, followed by 4K Ultra HD, Blu-ray, and DVD releases scheduled for October 14. The post-credits scene with Downey Jr.’s Doctor Doom not only teases upcoming conflicts but also hints at deeper multiversal intrigues that could shape the MCU’s next phase. Fans and critics alike await how this formidable new villain will influence future stories, especially considering the presence of iconic characters and emerging plotlines tied to the multiverse and Latveria.
“First look at Doctor Doom, Sue Storm and Franklin Richards in ‘AVENGERS: DOOMSDAY’ pic.twitter.com/nDAvsGvGFn” Avengers Updates
First look at Doctor Doom, Sue Storm and Franklin Richards in ‘AVENGERS: DOOMSDAY’ pic.twitter.com/nDAvsGvGFn
— Avengers Updates (@AvengersUpdated) September 22, 2025
