Pedro Pascal addresses backlash over his Fantastic Four casting, saying he’s never faced more criticism: “He’s too old. He’s not right. He needs to shave.”
Pedro Pascal has faced intense fan scrutiny before — from Star Wars loyalists to The Last of Us gamers — but nothing quite compares to the backlash he’s receiving for joining the Marvel Cinematic Universe as Reed Richards, aka Mr. Fantastic, in Fantastic Four: First Steps.
In his new Vanity Fair cover story, the 49-year-old actor opened up about the unexpected wave of criticism surrounding his latest role.
“I’m more aware of disgruntlement around my casting than anything I’ve ever done,” Pascal admitted. The most common complaints? “He’s too old. He’s not right.
He needs to shave.” Despite already proving his versatility across sci-fi, drama, and action franchises, Pascal seems to be facing resistance from hardcore Marvel fans who had a different image in mind for the leader of the Fantastic Four.
Still, Marvel Studios is standing firmly behind their casting choice. Fantastic Four: First Steps pairs Pascal with Vanessa Kirby as Sue Storm, Joseph Quinn as Johnny Storm, and Ebon Moss-Bachrach as Ben Grimm.
The ensemble has already been confirmed for a return in 2026’s Avengers: Doomsday, a clear sign that Marvel has big long-term plans for this new iteration of the beloved superhero family.
Kirby, speaking to Vanity Fair, praised Pascal’s vulnerability and authenticity, calling it one of the key things that brought the cast closer together.
“He doesn’t have much armor,” she said. “He shows himself to you straight away, and you trust that person because he’s revealing himself to you in this very brave way.”
Marvel is hoping this emotional depth will help Fantastic Four stand out, especially after recent MCU films have underperformed. Captain America: Brave New World was met with critical backlash and disappointing box office numbers.
Meanwhile, Thunderbolts, which launched the summer movie season, received strong reviews but is still expected to lose more than $50 million at the box office.
Despite concerns about superhero fatigue, Joseph Quinn remains confident in the film’s unique tone and direction. “There are aspects of it that are very different to other Marvel films,” he told Entertainment Weekly. “The script is brilliant. I’m delighted to have this opportunity.”
With acclaimed director Matt Shakman at the helm and a fresh take on the iconic team, Fantastic Four: First Steps could be the comeback Marvel fans have been waiting for.
The film is set to hit theaters July 25, 2025 — and whether fans love it or not, Pedro Pascal is ready to stretch into the role like never before.
