The upcoming Marvel film, The Fantastic Four: First Steps, will not include John Malkovich's character, Red Ghost, as revealed by director Matt Shakman. In a recent interview, Shakman explained that Malkovich’s scenes, which featured a battle against the Super-Apes, were ultimately cut to streamline the film's narrative. The director expressed his disappointment, noting Malkovich as an inspiration in both theater and film. The movie is set to showcase a retro-futuristic world while introducing Marvel’s iconic First Family, featuring actors like Pedro Pascal and Vanessa Kirby. Fans can expect the film's release on July 25, 2025.

Why was John Malkovich removed from The Fantastic Four: First Steps?

John Malkovich was removed from The Fantastic Four: First Steps due to narrative choices made during editing, as some scenes, including his portrayal of Red Ghost, did not fit into the final cut of the film.

The Fantastic Four is a cornerstone of Marvel Comics, first appearing in the early 1960s, and has been reinterpreted in various media since. The MCU has long been anticipated to include this iconic team, with previous adaptations facing mixed reviews. With a star-studded cast, this new film aims to introduce a fresh take on these beloved characters and their adventures in a cohesive cinematic universe.