First Look at H.E.R.B.I.E. from THE…

by August Tales

The long wait is over for Marvel fans. When Disney purchased 20th Century Fox, the X-Men weren’t the only heroes eyeing the MCU sprawl. The Fantastic Four are finally making their grand entrance with a fresh spin planned for Phase Six. After a cameo from Reed Richards in Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness, the team stayed on the sidelines. Now, with “The Fantastic Four: First Steps,” the beloved quartet is ready for action.

Meet H.E.R.B.I.E.: The Robot Companion

This upcoming film introduces an intriguing character: Humanoid Experimental Robot, B-Type, Integrated Electronics, or H.E.R.B.I.E. Enthusiasts from the ’70s TV series will recall this unique robot. Now, he returns to the fold, officially joining the MCU in spectacular style. Concept art featuring H.E.R.B.I.E. already stirred excitement at the 2024 New York Comic Con. Die-hard fans of the franchise should keep a keen eye on this fun character.

Title and Plot Revelations

Originally, Marvel appeared to name the film simply “Fantastic Four.” However, recent updates confirm it’s officially titled “The Fantastic Four: First Steps.” Comic-Con attendees got an exclusive peek into its retro-futuristic setting: 1960s New York City. While detailed plot lines remain under wraps, the nostalgic backdrop promises a thrilling blend of old-school Marvel flair and modern cinematic magic.

Behind-the-Scenes Development

According to project updates, Marvel appointed Matt Shakman, director of WandaVision, to helm the film in August 2022. Later that September, writers Jeff Kaplan and Ian Springer were announced. By March 2023, script rewrites were underway, courtesy of Josh Friedman, with Cameron Squires added in October 2023. Excitement builds as Kevin Feige confirmed shooting would start right after San Diego Comic-Con this July. Fans can expect a true period piece, rooted firmly in the swinging sixties.

A Star-Studded Cast Assembles

With a powerful roster, this film stars Pedro Pascal as Reed Richards, a.k.a. Mister Fantastic, and Vanessa Kirby as Sue Storm, the Invisible Woman. Ebon Moss-Bachrach brings life to The Thing, while Joseph Quinn flames on as Johnny Storm, the Human Torch. Pascal’s Instagram photo of the cast bonding before the shoot is already making waves online.

But that’s not all. Julia Garner steps in as Shalla-Bal’s Silver Surfer, and Ralph Ineson embodies the devourer of worlds: Galactus. Though mystery surrounds their roles, Paul Walter Hauser, John Malkovich, and Natasha Lyonne are also confirmed additions to the cast.

Anticipated Release Date

Circle July 25, 2025, on your calendars—it’s the date when “The Fantastic Four: First Steps” officially lands in theaters. This marks a new chapter for both Marvel Studios and devoted fans as anticipation reaches fever pitch for this epic addition to the MCU lineup.

Originally published on December 22, 2023.