Pedro Pascal isn’t new to the spotlight, but his latest role as Reed Richards, aka Mister Fantastic, in the Marvel Cinematic Universe has drawn more backlash than anything he’s done before.
The 50-year-old actor, known for major roles in Game of Thrones, Narcos, The Mandalorian, and The Last of Us, is now stepping into superhero territory with The Fantastic Four: First Steps, hitting theaters July 25th.
And yes, he’s well aware of the criticism.
Speaking to Vanity Fair, Pascal said, “I’m more aware of disgruntlement around my casting than anything I’ve ever done. ‘He’s too old. He’s not right. He needs to shave.’” The comments have been loud, especially among fans who believe Reed Richards should be younger, or at least, clean-shaven.
Despite the noise, Pascal isn’t backing down. He’s leaning into the character and believes the team behind the film has poured everything they’ve got into making something special. “I’m getting an inkling of excitement because it seems to reflect what our common goal was,” he explained. “What we want to share, which is all of our f***ing hearts on a platter within this genre.”
He’s also aware that not everyone will love what he brings to the role. “You just never know if people are going to be disgusted by your heart or not,” he added, acknowledging the vulnerability that comes with taking on a beloved comic book character.
The Fantastic Four: First Steps will be the first of multiple appearances for Pascal in the MCU. He’s also signed on for Avengers: Doomsday in 2026 and Avengers: Secret Wars in 2027.
Interestingly, the role of Reed Richards could’ve gone a very different way. David Tennant, known for Doctor Who, recently admitted during a panel at MCM Comic Con in London that he had his eye on the role. “I did slightly have my eye on Reed Richards, and unfortunately, it looks like they’ve gone in a different direction,” Tennant shared. “Although if it has to be someone, I’m happy for it to be Pedro Pascal, frankly.”
Tennant added, “I think Pedro Pascal is great. I’m very, very pleased that he exists.”
With heavy expectations and fan debates already swirling, Pedro Pascal is diving into this new chapter with full awareness and cautious optimism. Whether fans embrace his take on the iconic character or not, he’s clearly ready to give it his all.
Marvel’s The Fantastic Four: First Steps premieres July 25th, and one thing’s certain, people will be watching.
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