Pedro Pascal Addresses Casting Criticism for Reed Richards in 'Fantastic Four: First Steps'

Pedro Pascal acknowledges the backlash surrounding his casting as Reed Richards in Marvel's upcoming film, The Fantastic Four: First Steps, but finds comfort in support from Iron Man and Doctor Doom star Robert Downey Jr.

At 50, Pedro Pascal will debut in the MCU this July as a lead in The Fantastic Four. With Marvel Studios and Disney banking on its success to outshine this year’s other MCU releases, Captain America: Brave New World and Thunderbolts*, the film faces intense expectations as a major 2025 release.

In a Vanity Fair feature, Pascal admitted he’s more aware of the “criticism” about his role as Mister Fantastic than any prior role. This surpasses the scrutiny he faced for playing Joel in HBO’s The Last of Us, Oberyn Martell in Game of Thrones, or the lead in The Mandalorian.

“I sense excitement that aligns with our shared vision to pour our hearts into this genre,” he said. “But you never know if people will embrace or reject that passion.”

“I’ve never faced more casting criticism than for this role,” Pascal noted. “‘He’s too old. He doesn’t fit. He should shave.’”

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Since Pascal’s casting as Reed Richards was announced, debates have swirled about his suitability for the role. While some critique his appearance, including his mustache as Mister Fantastic, others argue that brief glimpses of his performance don’t capture its full depth, emphasizing that acting goes beyond looks.

Pascal finds an ally in Robert Downey Jr., who transitions from Iron Man to Doctor Doom for 2026’s Avengers: Doomsday. Though tight-lipped about the secretive project, Pascal values Downey’s support.

“He’s incredibly warm and welcoming, making it okay to feel scared, eager, or uncertain,” Pascal said of Downey.

Marvel Studios appears confident in The Fantastic Four, with reports last week suggesting a sequel is already in the works, even though the film’s release is still over a month away.