Robert Downey Jr. confirmed for Fantastic Four: First Steps

Robert Downey Jr.'s return to the Marvel Cinematic Universe as Doctor Doom has stirred massive excitement among fans. However, this excitement is not to be fulfilled in The Fantastic Four: First Steps. Despite Doom's deep ties to the Fantastic Four's comic book legacy, Marvel Studios has confirmed that Downey Jr.'s version of the iconic villain will not appear in the upcoming film.
Instead, the studio is shifting its focus to Galactus as the primary threat. This shift in the storyline is a bold move by Marvel, allowing the new Fantastic Four team to shine without being overshadowed by Downey Jr.'s larger-than-life presence. This carefully considered decision signals Marvel's intent to firmly establish the Fantastic Four as the next big stars in the MCU — and it may just be the smartest move yet.
Marvel aims to spotlight the fantastic four without overshadowing Star power
By choosing not to include Robert Downey Jr. 's Doctor Doom in Fantastic Four: First Steps , Marvel Studios is giving the new superhero team room to develop their identity in the MCU. With Galactus positioned as the main antagonist, the film can introduce fresh dynamics and world-building, setting the stage for future storylines without relying on legacy characters to carry the weight.
Robert Downey Jr. is coming back to the MCU. But no, you won't see him in Fantastic Four: First Steps.
This may sound surprising, especially since he's playing Doctor Doom — one of the most iconic villains in Marvel Comics. But Marvel has a clear reason for keeping him out of this movie. And honestly, it's a smart move.
Let's break down what's happening and why this decision helps both the film and the future of the MCU.
RDJ is playing doctor doom — But not yet
He told Empire Magazine, "Doom is not a part of my film, and therefore not a part of my preview." | Credit: Instagram
Robert Downey Jr. is officially returning to the Marvel Cinematic Universe — but not as Iron Man. Marvel has confirmed that he will debut as Doctor Doom in Avengers: Doomsday , a surprising twist that has sent shockwaves through the fan community. Many believed RDJ's journey with Marvel ended with Tony Stark's emotional death in Avengers: Endgame , but his comeback as one of Marvel's most iconic villains has reignited excitement.
Given Doctor Doom's deep comic book ties to the Fantastic Four, fans naturally assumed his first appearance would be in Fantastic Four: First Steps . However, Marvel is holding off, saving his grand entrance for a later, more impactful moment.
Director confirms: Doom is not in the first steps
Director Matt Shakman confirmed in an interview with Empire Magazine: "Doom is not a part of my film and, therefore, not a part of my preview." This statement is clear. Doom won't appear in Fantastic Four: First Steps — not even in a post-credit scene. And that's actually a good thing.
Why keeping RDJ out is the right call?
Marvel made the right decision by not including Robert Downey Jr. in The Fantastic Four movie, and here's why. This film marks the highly anticipated debut of the Fantastic Four in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, and the team needs space to develop chemistry and connect with audiences without being overshadowed. Introducing a star of RDJ's magnitude at this stage would inevitably steal the spotlight from the new heroes.
Additionally, the movie's central threat is Galactus, a powerful and terrifying villain who, according to early test screenings, leaves a strong impression. Including another major antagonist like Doctor Doom—or even teasing one—would dilute Galactus's impact.
Above all, Robert Downey Jr. is such an iconic presence that even a brief cameo could distract from the film's core narrative. For the Fantastic Four to truly shine, they need the stage to themselves, and Marvel made the smart call by giving them just that.
Marvel is playing the long game
Remember how Marvel introduced Thanos slowly? He appeared in post-credit scenes and small cameos before he took center stage in Infinity War.
Marvel could've done that again with Doctor Doom — but they're holding off. That means Avengers: Doomsday will likely be the first time we see RDJ as Doom.
And that makes his arrival even more exciting
The future of the MCU depends on the Fantastic Four
Directed by Matt Shakman, The Fantastic Four: First Steps will officially kick off Phase 6 of the Marvel Cinematic Universe | Credit: Reddit
Marvel is building the next generation of heroes. The Fantastic Four will be a big part of the future, possibly leading into Avengers: Secret Wars.
This movie needs to do one thing really well: introduce the team properly.
If fans love these new versions, they'll be invested for years. If not, Marvel risks losing interest in the next phase. Giving the team space to grow is a smart, long-term move.
Downey Jr. will return — just not yet
Don't worry — Robert Downey Jr. is still coming back. He'll make his big entrance in Avengers: Doomsday as the MCU's new Doctor Doom.
This gives Marvel:
A bigger stage for his reveal
A fresh storyline separate from Iron Man
Fans thought Downey Jr. was done after Endgame. But now, he's returning in a totally different role — and that alone has fans excited.
Robert Downey Jr. not showing up in Fantastic Four: First Steps might seem like a missed opportunity — but it's actually the smart move.
Marvel is playing the long game.
They're letting Galactus shine, building up the new heroes, and saving Doom for a massive reveal later.
And when Downey Jr. finally appears in Avengers: Doomsday, it'll be a moment fans won't forget.

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