The Fantastic Four is still over a year away from hitting theaters, but the cast is coming together quickly. Now, the latest addition to the cast is veteran actor John Malkovich. Details about Malkovich’s role were not included in the initial report, but he does have a strong physical resemblance to long-time Fantastic Four foe Philip Masters, who is better known as the Puppet Master.
Deadline was the first outlet to break the story of Malkovich’s casting. 2024 marks the 40th anniversary of Malkovich’s first major role in a feature film in Places in the Heart. He’s appeared in numerous movies over the past four decades, including villainous roles in Con Air, In the Line of Fire, Dangerous Liaisons, and Mindcage. Some of Malkovich’s other well-known films include The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy, The Killing Fields, and Being John Malkovich.
Earlier this year, Pedro Pascal was confirmed as Marvel’s choice for Mr. Fantastic alongside Vanessa Kirby as the Invisible Woman, Joseph Quinn as the Human Torch, and Ebon Moss-Bachrach the Thing. More recently, Julia Garner was cast as Shalla-Bal, who will be the MCU’s Silver Surfer. Paul Walter Hauser has also been cast in a currently unknown role.
WandaVision helmer Matt Shakman will direct The Fantastic Four, which will begin filming later this year. The Fantastic Four will fly into theaters July 25, 2025.
