Credit: Marvel StudiosMarvel is in a reset phase. Over the past few years, the studio has experienced a string of disappointments at the box office, shaking the once-unshakable dominance of the Marvel Cinematic Universe. What used to be surefire hits have become unpredictable, and the studio is clearly seeking ways to reestablish its footing. One of the most significant examples of this recalibration is Fantastic Four.
In an effort to reshape its future and steady the franchise, Marvel is making significant changes. Their debut film didn’t meet the studio’s expectations, and now this iconic superhero team is being revamped for a major comeback.
First Steps Toward the Future
The debut film Fantastic Four: First Steps was meant to be a cornerstone of the next phase of the MCU. This wasn’t just a one-off introduction—it was designed as the launchpad for a massive storyline that would lead directly into Avengers: Doomsday in December 2026.
The Fantastic Four has always been a vital part of Marvel’s puzzle, representing the science-driven, adventure-filled side of the universe. Their presence was meant to set the stage for the escalating multiversal chaos and the new villains waiting on the horizon.
A Critical Role in Avengers: Doomsday
Even after their first film struggled, the Fantastic Four’s role in Avengers: Doomsday hasn’t changed. Marvel still views this team as a central part of its future, with Reed Richards, Sue Storm, Johnny Storm, and Ben Grimm expected to play a crucial role when the Multiverse storyline reaches its climax.
Much like Iron Man and Captain America once anchored Marvel’s earlier crossover events, the First Family is positioned to help lead this new chapter. With the film just over a year away, the studio has time to refine how these characters are presented and win over audiences.
A Box Office Blow That Couldn’t Be Ignored
When Fantastic Four: First Steps hit theaters, expectations were sky-high. Years of hype and fan theories had built up around the team’s MCU debut. Unfortunately, the film didn’t deliver. It underperformed at the box office and failed to connect with both critics and longtime fans.
Many viewers felt the film lacked emotional depth and energy. Instead of feeling like a thrilling standalone story, it came across as a prequel—an extended setup for something bigger down the line. That strategy didn’t sit well with audiences who wanted more than a teaser for the future.
Disney and Marvel Hit Reset
Rather than sideline the franchise, Marvel and Disney decided to adjust their approach. While the cast remains the same, the studio is refining the team’s look and overall presentation ahead of their next appearance. These changes are subtle but meaningful, aimed at reintroducing the Fantastic Four in a way that feels sharper and more defined.
One of the clearest indicators of this shift comes through updated costumes revealed via official wrap gifts for Avengers: Doomsday. These early looks give fans a glimpse at how Marvel is repositioning the team visually before their big return.
Reed Richards
Pedro Pascal’s Reed Richards is the most noticeably updated of the group. His new outfit features a crisp white jacket with a blue collar layered over his original blue suit. The change gives him a sleeker, more lab-coat-inspired aesthetic—leaning into his reputation as the brilliant mind of the team.
This shift seems carefully designed to emphasize Reed’s identity as a scientist and leader, while still grounding him in the Fantastic Four’s signature color palette.
Sue Storm
Vanessa Kirby’s Sue Storm is also stepping into the next chapter with a fresh look. She now sports a jacket with a color scheme opposite to Reed’s, creating a complementary visual dynamic for the duo. Her arms remain blue, suggesting that either the jacket is a partial piece or the design blends seamlessly into the suit underneath.
Sue’s hairstyle remains the same, which suggests that while Marvel is making visual adjustments, it isn’t entirely rebooting the characters. It’s a refinement, not a reinvention.
Johnny Storm
Joseph Quinn’s Johnny Storm is leaning even further into the team’s blue aesthetic. His costume appears darker, paired with slightly longer hair—a subtle nod to the time jump between his debut and Doomsday.
Interestingly, Johnny is also seen wearing a jacket. Considering his ability to generate flames, the choice seems more about team cohesion and updated branding than practicality. It gives the team a unified look, signaling that this is the Fantastic Four 2.0.
Ben Grimm
Ebon Moss-Bachrach’s Ben Grimm stands out for not changing at all. He’s the only member still wearing the same outfit from the team’s first film. This may hint at something in the story itself. Perhaps Ben is separated from the rest of the team, or the timeline simply doesn’t allow for a new suit to be created for him.
Regardless of the reason, Ben’s unchanged look makes him stand out from the rest of the group’s new, polished appearance.
Why These Changes Matter
At first glance, costume tweaks may seem like a small detail—but in Marvel’s world, they’re often a sign of bigger shifts. Costume updates have historically gone hand-in-hand with character growth, tonal changes, or major story arcs.
When Tony Stark’s armor evolved, it represented his personal growth. When Steve Rogers changed his look, it mirrored his evolving perspective. The same logic applies here. By changing how the Fantastic Four looks heading into Doomsday, Marvel is signaling that this team isn’t just a supporting act—they’re going to be major players.
A Clearer Vision for the Future
This revamp shows that Marvel isn’t ready to give up on the Fantastic Four. Instead, it’s giving the team a second chance to make the impact their debut couldn’t. They’re not being sidelined—they’re being repositioned as central figures in what’s expected to be one of Marvel’s most important films in years.
The updated costumes are part of a larger strategy to refine their presence, tighten their story, and make them resonate with fans on a bigger scale. Marvel knows the stakes are high, and this is their opportunity to set the First Family up for success.
The Road to Doomsday
Avengers: Doomsday is already shaping up to be a defining moment for the MCU. As the Multiverse narrative builds toward its climax, the Fantastic Four will play a pivotal role in shaping its unfolding events. By making changes now, Marvel is trying to ensure that their second outing lands with far more force than their first.
This isn’t just a costume change—it’s a reset button for one of Marvel’s most beloved teams. If everything goes according to plan, this new direction could turn what began as a stumble into a major comeback.
A Second Shot at Greatness
Fantastic Four: First Steps may have flopped, but it isn’t the end of the road. Disney’s decision to push forward with a refreshed vision shows confidence in the team’s future. By the time Avengers: Doomsday hits theaters in December 2026, Marvel’s First Family could finally have the spotlight they were always meant to own.
This time, they’re stepping onto the battlefield with a new look, a stronger narrative, and a clear sense of purpose. Marvel’s message is simple: the Fantastic Four aren’t going anywhere—they’re just getting started.