Franklin Richards’ MCU Debut in The Fantastic Four: First Steps Could Reshape the Multiverse

The Fantastic Four: First Steps is poised to introduce one of Marvel Comics’ most powerful characters, Franklin Richards, to the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU). Recent marketing materials, including trailers and promotional statues, confirm that Sue Storm, played by Vanessa Kirby, is pregnant in the film, signaling the arrival of Franklin, the son of Sue and Reed Richards.

This revelation has sent shockwaves through the MCU fandom, as Franklin’s reality-warping abilities could play a pivotal role in the upcoming Avengers: Doomsday and Avengers: Secret Wars. In this article, we’ll dive into who Franklin Richards is, why his debut is a game-changer, and how he might shape the MCU’s Multiverse Saga.

Who Is Franklin Richards in Marvel Comics?

Franklin Richards, first introduced in Fantastic Four Annual #6 in 1968, is the firstborn child of Reed Richards (Mister Fantastic) and Sue Storm (Invisible Woman). In Marvel Comics, Franklin is a mutant with unparalleled powers, often described as one of the most powerful beings in the universe.

His abilities include reality manipulation, matter restructuring, telepathy, telekinesis, and the creation of pocket universes. These powers make him a force on par with cosmic entities like Galactus and the Celestials.

Franklin’s significance extends beyond his raw power. In key comic storylines, such as the 2015 Secret Wars, he plays a critical role in restoring the multiverse alongside his sister, Valeria, and Reed Richards. His ability to create and reshape realities positions him as a linchpin in narratives involving multiversal chaos, making his MCU debut highly anticipated.

Why Is Franklin’s Debut in The Fantastic Four: First Steps a Big Deal?

The confirmation of Franklin Richards in The Fantastic Four: First Steps is a massive development for the MCU. Recent trailers and promotional materials, including statues revealed on May 30, 2025, showcase baby Franklin, confirming that Sue Storm’s pregnancy will introduce this iconic character.

Vanessa Kirby’s tease in an Empire Magazine interview—“It’s not just adults that have superpowers”—hints that Franklin may display his abilities, even as a child, in the film set to release on July 25, 2025.

This debut is significant because Franklin’s powers could tie directly into the MCU’s Multiverse Saga. The Fantastic Four: First Steps is set in an alternate universe, and Franklin’s reality-warping abilities might explain this unique setting.

A fan theory suggests he could have created this retro ‘60s Earth, setting the stage for multiversal crossovers in Avengers: Doomsday (May 1, 2026) and Avengers: Secret Wars (May 7, 2027).

How Could Franklin Richards Impact Avengers: Doomsday and Secret Wars?

Franklin’s role in The Fantastic Four: First Steps appears to be just the beginning. Posts on X and reports from sources like Cosmic Circus indicate that Franklin will have a major presence in Avengers: Doomsday and Avengers: Secret Wars.

In the comics, Franklin’s reality-manipulation powers are central to the Secret Wars event, where he helps rebuild the multiverse after its collapse. The MCU seems to be following this trajectory, with Franklin potentially serving as a key figure in defeating Doctor Doom (played by Robert Downey Jr.) and restoring multiversal balance.

Speculation suggests that Franklin could age rapidly in the MCU, allowing him to appear as an older, more powerful character in Avengers: Doomsday. This would align with comic storylines where adult versions of Franklin from the future interact with the Fantastic Four. His mutant heritage could also connect The Fantastic Four: First Steps to the X-Men, especially with Fox’s X-Men characters returning in Avengers: Doomsday.

What Does Franklin’s Introduction Mean for the MCU’s Future?

The introduction of Franklin Richards in The Fantastic Four: First Steps could herald a soft reboot of the MCU. In Avengers: Secret Wars, Franklin’s ability to create new realities might allow Marvel Studios to merge Earth-616 (the main MCU universe), the X-Men’s Earth-10005, and the Fantastic Four’s alternate universe into a cohesive timeline.

This would streamline the MCU’s narrative and introduce mutants more prominently in a potential “Mutant Saga.”

Moreover, Franklin’s debut sets up long-term storytelling opportunities. His powers could influence future Avengers films, X-Men projects, and cosmic storylines involving entities like Galactus, who serves as the primary antagonist in The Fantastic Four: First Steps. The character’s versatility ensures he remains relevant beyond the Multiverse Saga.

Why Are Fans So Excited About Franklin Richards?

Fans are buzzing about Franklin’s MCU debut due to his status as a fan-favorite character with near-limitless potential. Posts on X highlight the excitement, with users calling Franklin “the most important character” in the upcoming Avengers films.

His introduction in The Fantastic Four: First Steps also fulfills a long-standing desire to see the Fantastic Four’s family dynamic fully realized, complete with Reed and Sue’s children.

The marketing for The Fantastic Four: First Steps has leaned into this excitement, with trailers emphasizing Sue’s pregnancy and Franklin’s presence. Combined with the star-studded cast—Pedro Pascal as Reed, Vanessa Kirby as Sue, Joseph Quinn as Johnny Storm, and Ebon Moss-Bachrach as Ben Grimm—the film promises to deliver a comic-accurate take on Marvel’s First Family, with Franklin as a key component.

Some Closing Thoughts:

Franklin Richards’ confirmed debut in The Fantastic Four: First Steps is a monumental moment for the MCU.

As the son of Reed and Sue, his reality-warping powers could reshape the Multiverse Saga, setting the stage for Avengers: Doomsday and Avengers: Secret Wars.

With marketing materials fueling anticipation and fan theories pointing to a multiversal reboot, Franklin’s arrival marks a bold new chapter for Marvel Studios.

As we count down to July 25, 2025, the MCU is gearing up for a cosmic shift—and Franklin Richards is at the heart of it.