Two decades ago, the talented actor Ioan Gruffudd took on the iconic role of Reed Richards in the groundbreaking film Fantastic Four, which marked the first live-action adaptation of Marvel’s first family (excluding the unreleased Roger Corman version). Despite receiving largely unfavorable reviews from critics, the film achieved significant commercial success, amassing an impressive $333.5 million at the box office against a production budget of less than 0 million. Following its success, a sequel titled Fantastic Four: Rise of the Silver Surfer was released two years later, garnering a slightly more favorable reception while also grossing over $300 million. The original cast had entered into a three-picture deal, anticipating their return for a third installment that ultimately never materialized.
In a conversation with Vulture, Gruffudd reflected on the unrealized project Fantastic Four 3, stating, “The mindset was that we were going to do three, and I think the second movie was equally successful as the first and equally enjoyable for the fans,” he shared. “I particularly loved working with Doug Jones [who played the Silver Surfer] on that movie, who’s just a terrific artist and an expert in the field of movement. If you want to witness somebody bringing a character to life physically, he’s just untouchable.”
Gruffudd elaborated on the situation, revealing, “So there was definitely that sort of momentum, and the plan was to do three movies, but these decisions are beyond my control.” Ultimately, 20th Century Fox opted to reboot the franchise with Josh Trank’s version of Fantastic Four, a film that ended up being controversial and widely criticized. Fortunately, Marvel Studios seems to have successfully rectified the situation with the release of The Fantastic Four: First Steps, which has been received positively by audiences and fans alike.
As Gruffudd’s fellow cast member, Chris Evans, makes his much-anticipated return in Deadpool & Wolverine, which he describes as “a true delight,” Gruffudd was asked about the possibility of reprising his role as a variant of Mister Fantastic. He responded, “I’m not in the new movie. Fans are convinced that I’m going to be in a particular aspect of this universe that hasn’t been written or filmed yet,” he noted. “But this idea of people showing up has been introduced, like Chris in Deadpool, or I think Mister Fantastic appeared in the guise of John Krasinski at one point. So, no, I haven’t been approached to reprise Mister Fantastic. But you never know.”
In a review from our own Chris Bumbray, he expressed surprise at how The Fantastic Four: First Steps managed to captivate him. “I’ve been burned out on both Marvel and superhero films in general, but this one got me to care again,” he remarked, further stating that creatively, “it’s the best Marvel movie in a long time.” Be sure to read the rest of his review right here, and we encourage you to share your thoughts on the film as well!
