Is Pedro Pascal’s Reed Richards the Real Culprit Behind the Chaos in The Fantastic Four: First Steps?

The Fantastic Four: First Steps is shaping up to be one of Marvel Studios’ most ambitious projects, bringing Marvel’s First Family into the MCU with a star-studded cast led by Pedro Pascal as Reed Richards, aka Mister Fantastic.

However, a compelling fan theory suggests that Pascal’s portrayal of the genius scientist might be at the heart of the film’s central conflict. Could Reed’s brilliance inadvertently trigger catastrophic events in this retro-futuristic 1960s-inspired blockbuster?

This article dives deep into the speculation, trailers, and insights surrounding The Fantastic Four: First Steps to explore whether Reed Richards is the true architect of the chaos.

What Makes Reed Richards a Potential Catalyst for Disaster?

Pedro Pascal’s Reed Richards is depicted as the smartest man in his universe, a pioneer of space exploration with elastic abilities that mirror his boundless intellect. However, as seen in the trailers for The Fantastic Four: First Steps, his ambition to “stretch the bounds of space” might lead to unintended consequences.

A popular theory posits that Reed’s experiments could cause an incursion—an event where two universes collide, leading to their destruction. This concept, introduced in Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness, suggests that even well-meaning heroes can destabilize reality.

In the comics, Reed’s relentless pursuit of knowledge has occasionally turned him into a villain, such as the multiversal menace The Maker. While The Fantastic Four: First Steps likely won’t take such a dark turn, the film could showcase Reed’s hubris as a flaw that invites cosmic threats like Galactus or the Silver Surfer.

Could Reed’s Actions Summon Galactus to Earth?

One of the most intriguing theories about The Fantastic Four: First Steps suggests that Galactus, the planet-devouring cosmic entity, targets the Fantastic Four’s Earth not out of malice but to prevent a greater catastrophe caused by Reed.

The trailers reveal Galactus and his Herald, Silver Surfer (played by Julia Garner), marking the planet for destruction. Some speculate that Reed’s experiments—possibly related to multiversal travel or cosmic energy—might have destabilized his universe, prompting Galactus to intervene to save his own reality.

This twist would reframe Galactus as a misunderstood force rather than a straightforward villain, aligning with Marvel’s trend of complex antagonists. If true, Reed’s scientific obsession could be the spark that ignites this cosmic conflict, setting the stage for the Fantastic Four to confront the consequences of his actions.

Is Franklin Richards’ Birth a Clue to Reed’s Mistakes?

The Fantastic Four: First Steps introduces a groundbreaking element: Sue Storm (Vanessa Kirby) is pregnant with Reed’s child, presumed to be Franklin Richards, a character known in the comics for his reality-warping powers. This addition raises questions about how Reed’s decisions might impact his family and the multiverse.

Some theories suggest that Franklin’s immense power could amplify the fallout from Reed’s experiments, potentially attracting cosmic attention or destabilizing reality further.

The trailers hint at a personal stakes for Reed, balancing his role as a hero, husband, and soon-to-be father. If his scientific endeavors inadvertently endanger his unborn child or trigger an incursion, The Fantastic Four: First Steps could explore a deeply human side of Reed’s flaws, making him both relatable and culpable.

How Does Pedro Pascal’s Portrayal Shape Reed’s Role?

Pedro Pascal has described his approach to Reed Richards as inspired by the adaptability and intelligence of an octopus, emphasizing brain over brawn. This portrayal suggests a Reed who is endlessly curious but potentially reckless, a trait that could lead to catastrophic miscalculations.

In interviews, Pascal has expressed both excitement and intimidation about embodying Reed, hinting at the pressure to deliver a nuanced performance that balances heroism with fallibility.

The trailers for The Fantastic Four: First Steps showcase brief glimpses of Reed’s stretching powers, but it’s his intellectual ambition that seems to drive the narrative. If Reed’s pursuit of knowledge pushes the boundaries of what’s safe, Pascal’s charismatic yet introspective take could make him the tragic catalyst for the film’s stakes.

Will Reed’s Mistakes Pave the Way for Avengers: Doomsday?

The Fantastic Four: First Steps is confirmed to tie into Avengers: Doomsday, with Pascal, Kirby, Quinn, and Moss-Bachrach returning. Speculation abounds that Reed’s actions in The Fantastic Four: First Steps could set up the multiversal chaos in the Avengers films, potentially involving Doctor Doom or a larger incursion event.

Some fans theorize that Franklin Richards, possibly aged up in Avengers: Doomsday, could play a pivotal role in resolving or exacerbating the crisis Reed may have caused.

This interconnected narrative suggests that Reed’s mistakes in The Fantastic Four: First Steps are not isolated but part of a larger MCU tapestry, positioning him as a key figure in the Multiverse Saga’s climax.

Some Closing Thoughts: Is Reed Richards the Hero or the Harbinger?

As The Fantastic Four: First Steps prepares to hit theaters on July 25, 2025, the spotlight is on Pedro Pascal’s Reed Richards—not just as a hero but as a potential catalyst for cosmic calamity. Whether through misguided experiments, multiversal meddling, or the birth of a powerful child, Reed’s brilliance could be the spark that sets the MCU ablaze.

While trailers and theories offer tantalizing clues, only the film will reveal if Reed is the savior of his world or the architect of its downfall.

One thing is certain: The Fantastic Four: First Steps will redefine Marvel’s First Family and leave fans debating Reed’s legacy for years to come.