Robert Downey Jr.’s Doom Absent From Fantastic Four: First Steps

If you were gearing up to see Robert Downey Jr. stalk the Fantastic Four as Doctor Doom… think again. Director Matt Shakman has confirmed that Doom won’t appear in the main runtime of Fantastic Four: First Steps—though a brief mid- or post-credits nod could still be in the cards.

Confirmed Details

In a recent Empire Magazine interview, Shakman stated flatly, “Doom isn’t part of my film.” Fantastic Four: First Steps, slated for July 2025, focuses squarely on Reed Richards, Sue Storm, Johnny Storm and Ben Grimm forging their team. No Victor Von Doom lurking in the shadows—at least until after the credits roll.

Speculation: Post-Credits Tease?

Marvel’s post-credits playbook remains in full force. A quick Doom cameo could serve as a launchpad for Avengers: Doomsday (2026), rather than clogging this origin tale. It’s the same sandbox approach that teased Thanos and Nick Fury years before audiences got their full-show payoff.

Opinion: A Calculated Hype Play

Opinion: Casting RDJ as Doom is pure strategic bravado. With superhero fatigue creeping in and box-office numbers wobbling, Marvel needs a guaranteed draw. Downey isn’t just an actor—he’s a cultural event. Whether this move honors Doom’s complex legacy or simply injects nostalgia into the brand is up for debate. Misfire here, and Marvel risks leaving a villainous void rivaling the one Stark’s death filled.

What’s Next for MCU Fans

Ticket-bookers hoping to see RDJ menace Reed Richards should adjust expectations. First Steps will deliver a streamlined team origin without Doom’s overarching threat. If Marvel wants to drop Doom into the mix, it’ll likely be a split-second credit-scene blink. Then begins another 18-month countdown to Avengers: Doomsday, where fans finally get a full-blown showdown.

Shakman’s no-Doom declaration keeps the hype rolling without overwhelming this first chapter. The real test arrives in 2026: can Avengers: Doomsday deliver a Doctor Doom worthy of Downey’s return? Until that showdown, prepare for speculation, credit-cue stress and one very long tease.