Although a recent press release initially left him out, John Malkovich will still appear in The Fantastic Four: First Steps. This exciting revelation has since reignited excitement among fans, especially those curious about the mystery Fantastic Four villain he might be portraying. Furthermore, his involvement adds an intriguing layer of suspense to the film’s already impressive lineup of characters.
John Malkovich’s Fantastic Four Villain Role and Fan Theories
Malkovich’s role had sparked numerous fan theories, with many believing he is playing Ivan Kragoff, better known as The Red Ghost. This classic Fantastic Four villain has Soviet ties and commands a team of super-apes, making him a compelling antagonist in the Marvel universe.
Although the first teaser trailer briefly showed Malkovich, the filmmakers deliberately kept his role ambiguous, thereby fueling speculation. Furthermore, a new featurette showcasing the Baxter Building—presented via Zillow—has since further reconfirmed his involvement through an official Marvel press release.
Possible Fantastic Four Villain Role and Screen Time
If Malkovich is indeed portraying the Red Ghost, then fans can expect his appearance to be brief yet impactful. Furthermore, his role could leave a lasting impression despite limited screen time. In fact, actor Joseph Quinn, who plays Johnny Storm, revealed that he only filmed scenes with Malkovich for a single day. Therefore, this suggests that Malkovich might appear only in a flashback or an early threat montage, possibly portraying a villain the Fantastic Four already defeated or briefly encounter in the present timeline.
Other Villains Confirmed for The Fantastic Four: First Steps
Besides the rumored Red Ghost, the film will also feature several other formidable villains, including:
- Galactus, played by Ralph Ineson
- Silver Surfer (rumored to be a female version)
- Mole Man, played by Paul Walter Hauser
Main Cast Highlights
- Pedro Pascal as Reed Richards / Mister Fantastic
- Vanessa Kirby as Sue Storm / Invisible Woman
- Joseph Quinn as Johnny Storm / Human Torch
- Ebon Moss-Bachrach as Ben Grimm / The Thing
- Ralph Ineson as Galactus
- Paul Walter Hauser as Mole Man
- John Malkovich (rumored to play Red Ghost)
Release Date and Anticipation
The Fantastic Four: First Steps is scheduled to hit theaters on July 25, 2025. Fans are Fans are eagerly awaiting the film, particularly because of the confirmed return of classic villains and the exciting possibility that Malkovich’s mysterious character will play a pivotal part. Moreover, anticipation continues to build as more details emerge.eagerly awaiting the film, especially with the confirmed return of classic villains and the possibility of Malkovich’s mysterious character playing a pivotal part.
With such a star-studded cast and a lineup of iconic villains, the film promises to bring fresh energy and excitement to the Marvel Cinematic Universe.
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