Cover Ebon Moss-Bachrach, Joseph Quinn, Pedro Pascal and Vanessa Kirby of Marvel Studios' ‘The Fantastic Four’ at the 2024 San Diego International Comic-Con (Photo by Gilbert Flores/Variety via Getty Images)
Ebon Moss-Bachrach, Joseph Quinn, Pedro Pascal and Vanessa Kirby of Marvel Studios' ‘The Fantastic Four’ at the 2024 San Diego International Comic-Con (Photo by Gilbert Flores/Variety via Getty Images)
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The latest iteration of ‘Fantastic Four’ is shaping up to be one of the most anticipated superhero films in recent years. Adding to the excitement is a powerhouse cast that brings a wealth of talent and experience to Marvel's first family
Every 10 years or so, someone tries to interpret Marvel’s first family for the big screen. In 1994, Roger Corman and Bernd Eichinger produced a film so that Eichinger could keep the movie rights to the characters. It wasn't released to the public although some clips and copies have wound up online. In 2005, 20th Century Fox released a big-budget blockbuster starring Ioan Gruffudd, Jessica Alba, Chris Evans and Michael Chiklis. It was cheesy but fun and made over three times its budget. The follow-up, however, was a critical dud, eventually killing that line in the franchise.
In 2015, 20th Century Fox made one last attempt. The highly anticipated reboot, directed by Josh Trank, tanked so critically and financially that it’s best left forgotten. Fortunately, by March 2019, Marvel Studios reacquired the film rights to the Fantastic Four, and now we’re here.
In July 2025, Marvel’s Fantastic Four: First Steps is set to reprise one of the most beloved superhero teams on the big screen, with an exciting new cast at the helm. While the film marks First Family’s entry into the Marvel Cinematic Universe, these actors have already made waves in Hollywood with breakout performances and career-defining roles. Here’s where you’ve seen them before:
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1. Pedro Pascal as Reed Richards / Mister Fantastic
Breakout role: Game of Thrones (2014) as Oberyn Martell
Most famous roles: The Mandalorian (2019–present), The Last of Us (2023–present)
Pedro Pascal captured audiences’ attention as the charismatic and tragic Oberyn Martell in Game of Thrones, a role that carried such an impact that he skyrocketed into fame despite the character’s short-lived arc. He followed it up with a series of big-budget works in Narcos, Kingsman: The Golden Circle and even Wonder Woman 1984.
He then dominated television as the lead in The Mandalorian, becoming the face (or helmet, rather) of Star Wars for a new generation. His critically acclaimed portrayal of Joel in HBO’s The Last of Us further cemented his reputation as a powerhouse actor. With his mix of rugged charm and emotional depth, Pascal is poised to bring gravitas to Reed Richards, the genius leader of the Fantastic Four.
2. Vanessa Kirby as Sue Storm / Invisible Woman
Breakout Role: The Crown (2016–2018) as Princess Margaret
Most Famous Roles: Pieces of a Woman (2020), Mission: Impossible – Fallout (2018), Napoleon (2023)
Some of Vanessa Kirby’s earlier work showed her in secondary roles. She was Rachel McAdams’ best friend in About Time as well as the person who broke Sam Claflin’s heart in Me Before You.
Her long-awaited day in the spotlight came with her stunning performance as Princess Margaret in The Crown, winning a BAFTA for her work. She then pivoted to action blockbusters, playing the enigmatic White Widow in Mission: Impossible – Fallout and its upcoming sequels. She showed off her dramatic chops in Pieces of a Woman, which earned her an Oscar nomination. Most recently, she portrayed Empress Josephine in Napoleon opposite Joaquin Phoenix. With her alluring mix of regal poise and steely determination, Kirby is a perfect choice for the intelligent and resilient Sue Storm.
Don't miss: Why is The Crown (Season 2) Netflix’s most expensive TV series?
3. Ebon Moss-Bachrach as Ben Grimm / The Thing
Breakout role: Girls (2014–2017) as Desi Harperin
Most famous roles: The Bear (2022–present), The Punisher (2017–2019), Andor (2022)
Ebon Moss-Bachrach has been around for a while. You might be surprised to learn that he played Charlie Stewart in Mona Lisa Smile (that's the character Ginnifer Goodwin ended up with). Over the years, he has built an impressive career playing complex, often chaotic characters.
Moss-Bachrach first gained attention in Girls as the infuriating yet hilarious Desi. He then tackled grittier roles, including playing David Lieberman/Micro in The Punisher and a rebel leader in Andor. His most acclaimed role to date is Richie Jerimovich in The Bear, which earned him an Emmy nomination. His ability to bring humour and emotional weight makes him a fantastic pick for Ben Grimm, the tough yet deeply loyal rock of the Fantastic Four.
See more: Yes, chef: why everyone is talking about The Bear, the new TV series by FX
4. Joseph Quinn as Johnny Storm / Human Torch
Breakout role: Stranger Things (2022) as Eddie Munson
Most famous roles: Stranger Things (2022), A Quiet Place: Day One (2024)
Joseph Quinn became an overnight sensation with his scene-stealing turn as Eddie Munson in Stranger Things season 4. His rebellious charm and unforgettable Metallica solo turned him into a fan favourite. Though his time in the show was short-lived, his impact was massive and fans are still yelling #JusticeforEddie. Since then, Quinn has landed roles in major films, including A Quiet Place: Day One and Gladiator II. His turn as the hot-headed but charismatic Human Torch is his biggest role to date.
Interestingly, he and Kirby are both Brits feigning American accents.
