Pedro Pascal Responds to Backlash Over Mister Fantastic Casting in MCU’s Fantastic Four

Pedro Pascal knows fans haven’t exactly been quiet about their feelings. Ever since Marvel announced he’d be playing Reed Richards in The Fantastic Four: First Steps, some parts of the internet have had their doubts. And Pascal? He gets it. He’s not pretending otherwise.

In a new interview with Vanity Fair, Pascal opened up about the reaction. He admitted he’s fully aware that some Marvel fans didn’t want him cast as the MCU’s Mister Fantastic. His exact words hit pretty deep: “You just never know if people are going to be disgusted by your heart or not.”

It’s rare for an actor to speak so openly about public criticism. But Pascal didn’t stop there.

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Three Fan Complaints He’s Aware Of

According to Pascal, there were three main complaints people had about him stepping into the role. One, “He’s too old.” Two, “He’s not right.” And three, “He needs to shave.”

That last one probably got the most attention. Pascal’s scruffy beard doesn’t match the traditional clean-shaven look of Reed Richards in most comics. Sure, there have been versions of Mister Fantastic with a beard, but the fanbase tends to hold on tight to the classic image.

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And Pascal isn’t even Marvel’s first pick. Reports suggest that actors like Adam Driver, Matt Smith, Jake Gyllenhaal, and Jamie Dornan were all in the running. So when Pascal landed the role, it added more fuel to the debate.

Pascal’s Focus Is on the Work

But here’s the thing. No matter what fans say now, it’s Pascal’s performance that will shape their final opinion. He knows the pressure is there. He also knows the MCU audience is passionate and doesn’t hold back when it comes to their favorites.

The Fantastic Four isn’t just another movie. It kicks off Phase 6 of the Marvel Cinematic Universe. And with a July 25, 2025 release date, fans won’t have to wait long to see what he brings to the table.

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The Cast Is Stacked

Pascal will be joined by Vanessa Kirby as Sue Storm, Joseph Quinn as Johnny Storm, and Ebon Moss-Bachrach as Ben Grimm. Add Julia Garner as Silver Surfer and Ralph Ineson as Galactus, and you’ve got a lineup that’s making headlines.

Pascal might not be everyone’s dream Reed Richards. But he’s walking into the role with heart, awareness, and a stacked cast beside him. Whether that’s enough to win over the skeptical fans, we’ll find out soon enough.