Disney and Marvel’s Phase Six rollout with The Fantastic Four: First Steps has sparked fresh debate about the Avengers’ future leadership. Matt Shakman, the director behind the Fantastic Four reboot, appears to have hinted at something unexpected: Reed Richards might be the one calling the shots, not Sam Wilson’s Captain America as many assumed.
Shakman Drops Hints About Reed Richards’ Leadership Arc
During a chat with Variety, Shakman painted an intriguing picture of Reed Richards’ journey in the upcoming film. He described Richards as someone who starts as a brilliant but isolated scientist, grows into a devoted family man, and eventually emerges as a natural leader. What caught attention was Shakman’s emphasis on this leadership evolution being crucial to his vision of Mr. Fantastic.
While Shakman didn’t outright declare Richards as the next Avengers commander, his words carry weight. The timing feels deliberate — with the Fantastic Four set to dominate Phase Six, positioning Reed Richards at the center makes strategic sense.
Phase Six Puts the Fantastic Four Front and Center
The team’s roster reads like a who’s who of talented actors: Pedro Pascal brings Reed Richards to life, while Ebon Moss-Bachrach transforms into Ben Grimm/The Thing. Joseph Quinn takes on Johnny Storm/Human Torch duties, and Vanessa Kirby steps into Sue Storm/Invisible Woman’s shoes. They’re squaring off against Galactus — the cosmic threat finally making his MCU entrance — plus other familiar foes like Doctor Doom.
What seals the deal? All four team members are confirmed for Avengers: Doomsday, creating a direct bridge to the larger MCU narrative. This connection strengthens speculation that Mr. Fantastic could rally Earth’s Mightiest Heroes, perhaps even delivering that spine-tingling \”Avengers, Assemble!\” moment fans live for.
Behind the Scenes: Cast and Creative Team
The supporting cast brings serious talent to the table with Julia Garner, Natasha Lyonne, Sarah Niles, and Paul Walter Hauser rounding out the ensemble. Shakman’s directing vision gets support from a writing team that includes Jeff Kaplan, Ian Springer, Eric Pearson, Josh Friedman, and Peter Cameron. Kevin Feige, Marvel Studios’ mastermind, produces the project.
Circle July 25, 2025 on your calendar — that’s when The Fantastic Four: First Steps lands in theaters. As the Marvel Cinematic Universe keeps expanding, expect more revelations about Avengers: Doomsday to surface.
