Pedro Pascal has opened up about the online backlash surrounding his age after being cast as Reed Richards in Marvel’s upcoming Fantastic Four: First Steps. The 50-year-old actor acknowledged the criticism but emphasized his commitment to the role.
Pedro Pascal Addresses Fan Concerns About His Age
Some fans expressed disappointment when Pedro Pascal was announced as the new Mister Fantastic, arguing he might be too old for the part. At 50, he is the oldest actor to play the stretchy superhero, surpassing previous actors like Ioan Gruffudd (31), Miles Teller (28), and John Krasinski (42).
“I think that sometimes the outside will find you no matter how much you try to protect yourself from it, and it just comes with the territory,” Pascal said during a fan event in London.
He admitted the criticism affected him more than usual because of his deep respect for the character and fans’ passion for the Fantastic Four.
“I think maybe my nerves were bigger than they usually are, and so I think I just was a little bit more sensitive to the love that people have for stories like this, because I know that they wouldn’t exist if it weren’t for the love that people have for these characters.”
Pascal’s Commitment to the Role
Despite the debate, Pascal remains focused on delivering a performance that honors Reed Richards.
“I think that it’s very important for me that expectations be fulfilled. But I also know that the only way to do that is to give it all my focus and all my heart and my body and my soul, and so that was the best I could do.”
The film, set in a retro-futuristic 1960s alternate universe, introduces Marvel’s First Family into the MCU. Alongside Pascal, the cast includes Vanessa Kirby as Sue Storm, Joseph Quinn as Johnny Storm, and Ebon Moss-Bachrach as Ben Grimm.
David Tennant Also Wanted the Role
Actor David Tennant recently revealed he had hoped to play Reed Richards before Pascal was cast.
“I think in terms of supervillains, I got the best one with Kilgrave,” Tennant said at MCM Comic Con. “In terms of superheroes, I did slightly have my eye on Reed Richards, and unfortunately, it looks like they’ve gone in a different direction. Although if it has to be someone, I’m very happy for it to be Pedro Pascal.”
Fan Reactions to the Casting
While some fans questioned Pascal’s age, others praised the trailer and his portrayal.
“Okay the Fantastic Four trailer wasn’t bad. I’m pleasantly surprised.” – Fan on X
“I’m not even a Fantastic Four fan, but this looks really sleek. It’s nailing the period setting in the same way that First Avenger did.” – Another fan reaction
The film also features Julia Garner as the Silver Surfer and Ralph Ineson as Galactus, with Robert Downey Jr. set to return as Doctor Doom in future installments.
The Cast’s Strong Bond
During promotional events, the Fantastic Four stars shared their close off-screen relationship.
“We were really lucky, because you can’t manufacture chemistry,” Vanessa Kirby said. “We really became a family so quickly. And it was a miracle, really, wasn’t it? That we just adored each other.”
Fantastic Four: First Steps releases in theaters on July 25, 2025.
Credits: Sources include Hindustan Times, Daily Mail, IMDb, Radio Times, and ABC13.
