Marvel Studios is on a hunt for their new Mr. Fantastic and it seems their search has ended on Pedro Pascal. The American film and television production company is currently in talks with the Mandalorian actor to star as Reed Richards in Fantastic Four, marking perhaps the most significant casting move since the conclusion of the actors’ strike earlier this month. The latest development has sparked a debate among fans.
While many have rendered their support to Pascal, who is known for his impeccable performance in Unbearable Weight of Massive Talent and The Mandalorian, others have advocated John Krasinski, citing his brief portrayal of a variant of Mister Fantastic in Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness.
Pedro Pascal was offered the role of Reed Richards/Mr. Fantastic and is reportedly close to signing.
— One Take News (@OneTakeNews) November 15, 2023
Should Pascal sign on, an official announcement from Marvel Studios would follow.
(via @DanielRPK) pic.twitter.com/ShNdCKn6yO
Reacting to the heated debate on the internet, one user wrote, “Imagine downgrading from John Krasinski to Pedro Pascal. Marvel continues to make all the wrong decisions.” Another maintained, "At best he’s a doctor doom [sic]. He ain’t no Reed Richards.”
"Pedro Pascal stepping into the iconic role of Reed Richards in the upcoming Fantastic Four! The Fantastic franchise just got a whole lot more fantastic," argued another X user.
Imagine downgrading from John Krasinski to Pedro Pascal. Marvel continues to make all the wrong decisions. pic.twitter.com/xQy1AKZ4LW
— JosiahRises 🔥 (@JosiahRises) November 15, 2023
John Krasinski is known for his role as Jim in the ‘The Office’ and over the years, he has earned a strong fan base that was pleased with his cameo in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, prompting them to question why he wasn't offered the role permanently. Many have also highlighted Krasinski's potential for the character and his established rapport with the audience.
“We just wanted some good news, but we got the worst fucking news imaginable tonight,” explained Krasinski superfan Alfred Thomas.
Interestingly, the debate wasn’t limited to personal preferences. A slew of fans pointed out what each actor could bring to this role.
I know a lot of people wanted John Krasinski to stay, but remembering his performance in "Unbearable Weight of Massive Talent" AND "Mandalorian," I think he actually has both the comedic and dramatic chops to play Reed Richards. https://t.co/igKZs2F90P pic.twitter.com/JWkjCJC6ZC
— KnightroStark (@KnightroStark) November 15, 2023
On the contrary, Pascal’s fan base has argued that his diverse acting skills make him a strong candidate. "I know a lot of people wanted John Krasinski to stay, but remembering his performance in Unbearable Weight of Massive Talent AND Mandalorian, I think he actually has both the comedic and dramatic chops to play Reed Richards," one fan wrote.
The latest casting decision comes as a pivotal phenomenon as Marvel Studios aims to expand the MCU. While Fantastic Four is set to start filming early next year and a release date is set for May 2, 2025, the decision on who will play Mister Fantastic remains a hot topic among fans, reflecting the ongoing discussions about casting choices in major film franchises.
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