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Tag: fantastic four

  • Julian McMahon Passes Away at 56 After Private Cancer Fight

    Julian McMahon Passes Away at 56 After Private Cancer Fight

    Digital Phablet – Julian McMahon, best known for his lead roles in popular TV series like Nip/Tuck, Charmed, FBI: Most Wanted, and in the Fantastic Four films from the 2000s, sadly passed away on July 2 in Clearwater, Florida, after a courageous battle with cancer. He was 56 years old.

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    Following a private struggle with cancer, McMahon’s passing was announced by his wife, Kelly, on July 4, confirming that he died peacefully in Clearwater.

    “With a heavy heart, I want to share the news that my cherished husband, Julian McMahon, left us this week after bravely fighting cancer,” Kelly stated in a message to Deadline. “Julian cherished every moment of life, loved his family, friends, work, and fans. His greatest hope was to spread joy to as many people as possible. We appreciate your understanding as we take this time to mourn privately, and we hope everyone who felt his joy continues to find happiness in life. We are thankful for all the memories.”

    Australian-US actor Julian McMahon (Photo by SUZANNE CORDEIRO / AFP)

    In the acclaimed series Nip/Tuck, produced by Ryan Murphy, McMahon portrayed the role of Dr. Christian Troy between 2003 and 2010. He also played the character Cole Turner, who was a romantic interest for Alyssa Milano’s character Phoebe in Charmed from 2000 to 2005.

    McMahon took on the role of the villain Victor Von Doom in the superhero features Fantastic Four (2005) and Fantastic Four: Rise of the Silver Surfer (2007). His latest television role was in The Residence on Netflix, a series that was unexpectedly canceled after one season.

    Prior to his departure in January 2022, Julian was the lead of the CBS crime series FBI: Most Wanted. He expressed pride in his work, highlighting the importance of the show and his character Jess as significant milestones in his career. He wished the best for the cast and crew, stating, “I’m grateful for the chance to bring Jess to life. He’s a great guy.”

    McMahon was previously married to actress Brooke Burns and singer Dannii Minogue before marrying Kelly Paniagua in 2014. He has a daughter, Madison Elizabeth McMahon, aged 25, from his former marriage with Burns.

    On March 10, 2025, McMahon made his last public appearance at the SXSW Film & TV Festival in Austin, Texas, where he showcased his film The Surfer alongside Nicolas Cage.

  • Marvel’s Concerns? Mixed Results from Fantastic Four Test Screening

    Marvel’s Concerns? Mixed Results from Fantastic Four Test Screening

    Marvel is gearing up for Phase Six with the upcoming film, The Fantastic Four: First Steps. The studio’s prospects depend heavily on the film’s performance, both critically and at the box office, as the MCU transitions into this new phase. Early test screenings may be a cause for concern for Marvel, given the mixed feedback observed.

    In an unusual move, the studio conducted public test screenings of The Fantastic Four: First Steps nearly two months ahead of its scheduled release in July. According to insider Jeff Sneider, the results were varied.

    In the latest edition of Sneider’s newsletter, he relayed that a source gave First Steps a lukewarm review, describing it with terms like “mid” and “meh.” The source noted it was “not that bad, but not that good, either.” More alarmingly, concerns were raised about underdeveloped characters and subpar CGI, although it’s expected that the latter will be improved before the film’s release.

    Another source, who has yet to view the completed project, characterized the film as a “mess” and referred to it as a “huge problem movie.” Such troubling sentiments likely prompted Marvel to initiate the test screening process.

    On a brighter note, Ralph Ineson’s portrayal of the villain Galactus has reportedly been well-received. Sneider mentioned, “Ralph Ineson’s Galactus went over well with audiences, which is promising, particularly since Marvel has faced challenges with its villains lately.”

    Since the test screening occurred eight weeks before the film’s premiere, Marvel has ample opportunity to address some of the highlighted issues, including visual effects.

    The Fantastic Four: First Steps introduces Marvel’s First Family to the MCU, featuring Pedro Pascal as Reed Richards/Mister Fantastic, Vanessa Kirby as Sue Storm/Invisible Woman, Joseph Quinn as Johnny Storm/Human Torch, and Ebon Moss-Bachrach as Ben Grimm/The Thing. Ineson voices Galactus, with Julia Garner as Shalla-Bal/Silver Surfer. The cast also includes Paul Walter Hauser, John Malkovich, Natasha Lyonne, and Sarah Niles.

    Directed by Matt Shakman, who previously helmed the Disney+ series WandaVision, First Steps follows the mixed success of Captain America: Brave New World and the more favorable reception of Thunderbolts. As the final Marvel film of 2025, The Fantastic Four comes ahead of Spider-Man: Brand New Day, expected in July 2026, following the postponement of Avengers: Doomsday to December 2026.

    The Fantastic Four: First Steps is set to hit theaters on July 25.

  • The Fantastic Four: First Look at Julia Garner as Silver Surfer

    The Fantastic Four: First Look at Julia Garner as Silver Surfer

    Marvel Studios has taken its time with the launch of the Fantastic Four. However, the newest trailer for The Fantastic Four: First Steps has finally introduced us to Julia Garner as the Silver Surfer.

    “Are you the defenders of our planet?” the Silver Surfer inquires of Marvel’s First Family, subsequently announcing that Earth has been “marked for demise.” Shalla-Bal, also known as the Silver Surfer, is the Empress of Zenn-La and the designated herald for Galactus (Ralph Ineson), the cosmic entity known for devouring worlds. Garner’s portrayal features the classic metallic skin and a surfboard-like vehicle for travel.

    The trailer didn’t just feature the Silver Surfer. It also confirmed that Sue Storm (played by Vanessa Kirby) is expecting her first child. Reed Richards (Pedro Pascal), her husband, appeared apprehensive, while Johnny Storm (Joseph Quinn) and Ben Grimm (Ebon Moss-Bachrach) expressed excitement, knowing they are about to become uncles.

    “We can handle this,” Sue reassures Reed during an intimate moment. “Nothing will change.”

    The Silver Surfer stands and looks.
    Marvel Studios

    However, Sue’s life is set to change dramatically with Galactus’s arrival. Even the intellect of Reed cannot foresee the turmoil that lies ahead, leaving him uncertain about the safety of humanity.

    “We will confront this challenge as a unified force,” Sue proclaims with determination. “As a family, we will face whatever comes our way.”

    The Fantastic Four: First Steps features Paul Walter Hauser, John Malkovich, Natasha Lyonne, and Sarah Niles alongside its main cast.

    This film serves as the first entry of the Fantastic Four into the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Earlier in this century, 20th Century Fox produced three films featuring the Fantastic Four: Fantastic Four in 2005, Fantastic Four: Rise of the Silver Surfer in 2007, and a reboot in 2015 titled Fantastic Four.

    Because the MCU’s take on the Fantastic Four embraces a retro-futuristic aesthetic reminiscent of the 1960s, don’t expect appearances from other MCU characters—at least not until the film’s conclusion or in the post-credits. The Fantastic Four are heading toward an inevitable clash with Doctor Doom (Robert Downey Jr.), and will also feature in Avengers: Doomsday.

    Directed by Matt Shakman, The Fantastic Four: First Steps is produced by Kevin Feige, with Louis D’Esposito, Grant Curtis, and Tim Lewis serving as executive producers.

    Mark your calendars: The Fantastic Four: First Steps is set to premiere on July 25.

  • Marvel’s First Family Debuts In The Fantastic Four Teaser

    Marvel’s First Family Debuts In The Fantastic Four Teaser

    The anticipation surrounding Marvel’s First Family is finally coming to an end. Marvel has dropped the inaugural teaser for The Fantastic Four: First Steps.

    This initial footage introduces a fresh set of heroes, featuring Pedro Pascal as Reed Richards/Mister Fantastic, Vanessa Kirby as Sue Storm/Invisible Woman, Joseph Quinn as Johnny Storm/Human Torch, and Ebon Moss-Bachrach as Ben Grimm/The Thing. Set against the backdrop of a retro-futuristic 1960s New York City, the teaser delves into the lives of the four before and after their transformation into superheroes.

    The Fantastic Four will band together to protect Earth from a planet-destroying cosmic entity named Galactus (voiced by Ralph Ineson) and his Herald, the Silver Surfer (Julia Garner). “Whatever challenges life throws our way, we face them together as a family,” Sue declares in the footage.

    The Fantastic 4 stand on a platform.
    Marvel Studios

    Joining the cast are Paul Walter Hauser, John Malkovich, Natasha Lyonne, and Sarah Niles.

    The Fantastic Four: First Steps is helmed by Matt Shakman, with a screenplay crafted by a talented team including Jeff Kaplan, Ian Springer, Josh Friedman, Cameron Squires, Eric Pearson, and Peter Cameron. The film is produced by Marvel Studios President Kevin Feige, with executive producers including Louis D’Esposito, Grant Curtis, and Tim Lewis.

    This film marks the beginning of Phase Six in the MCU, positioning The Fantastic Four as key players in the Marvel universe moving forward. Pascal, Kirby, Quinn, and Moss-Bachrach will reprise their roles in the upcoming Avengers: Doomsday.

    First Steps is set to be the third Marvel film scheduled for release in 2025. Captain America: Brave New World launches on February 14, followed by Thunderbolts on May 2.

    We have liftoff.

    Marvel Studios’ #TheFantasticFour: First Steps hits theaters on July 25. pic.twitter.com/hJ98F6PHEj

    — Marvel Studios (@MarvelStudios) February 4, 2025

    The Fantastic Four: First Steps is slated for theatrical release on July 25, 2025.

  • Kevin Feige Discusses MCU Future With Fantastic Four X-Men

    Kevin Feige Discusses MCU Future With Fantastic Four X-Men

    The Marvel Cinematic Universe is gearing up for a new era of superheroes, prominently featuring the Fantastic Four. This iconic team is poised to make their debut in the upcoming film, The Fantastic Four: First Steps. During Disney’s APAC Content Showcase in Singapore, Kevin Feige, President of Marvel Studios, announced that production on First Steps is nearly wrapped up. Following their introduction, Feige anticipates that this supergroup will become a significant component of the MCU, particularly in future Avengers films.

    “Finally, we’re excited to bring Marvel’s First Family into the MCU,” Feige shared (via Deadline). “Filming will conclude next week, with the movie set to release next summer. After that, these characters will seamlessly transition into the next wave of Avengers films, and I couldn’t be more thrilled about the future of the Fantastic Four.”

    The cast of the Fantastic Four pose for a promotional photo.
    Pedro Pascal / Instagram

    The Fantastic Four: First Steps marks the beginning of Phase Six in the MCU, featuring Pedro Pascal as Reed Richards/Mister Fantastic, Vanessa Kirby as Sue Storm/Invisible Woman, Joseph Quinn as Johnny Storm/Human Torch, and Ebon Moss-Bachrach as Ben Grimm/The Thing. Directed by Matt Shakman, the film is scheduled to hit theaters on July 25, 2025.

    After introducing the Fantastic Four, the spotlight will shift to the much-anticipated arrival of the X-Men. Feige expressed his excitement about regaining the rights to the X-Men, calling it a “dream.” He hinted that fans might see some familiar mutants pop up in upcoming MCU releases. This buildup is all leading to Avengers: Secret Wars, which will usher in Marvel’s mutant saga.

    “I think audiences will see some X-Men characters reappear in our next films. After that, the plot of Secret Wars will truly set the stage for a new era featuring the X-Men,” Feige noted. “It’s a dream come true that we finally have the X-Men back in the fold.”

    Deadpool and Wolverine stand near a metal cage in Marvel's Deadpool & Wolverine.
    Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures / Marvel Studios

    This year also marked the return of Hugh Jackman’s Wolverine to the MCU with Deadpool & Wolverine. Additionally, Patrick Stewart’s Professor Charles Xavier appeared in Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness, and Kelsey Grammer’s Hank McCoy had a cameo in the post-credits of The Marvels. Furthermore, Ms. Marvel introduced Iman Vellani’s Kamala Khan as a mutant.

    In May, Michael Lesslie, known for Now You See Me 3, was brought on board to write an untitled X-Men film for Marvel. While this film does not yet have a specific release date, it is expected to arrive following Avengers: Secret Wars, set for May 7, 2027.

  • The Fantastic Four: First Steps Teases A Very Personal Mission

    The Fantastic Four: First Steps Teases A Very Personal Mission

    The cast of "The Fantastic Four: First Steps."
    Marvel Studios

    By this time next year, the Fantastic Four will officially join Marvel’s Cinematic Universe.

    The Fantastic Four: First Steps still has seven months before its release, with filming currently underway in Europe. While Marvel typically keeps details of its projects tightly under wraps, the studio has shared the first synopsis for The Fantastic Four: First Steps, indicating that it will be a deeply personal story for the superhero team.

    “Set in a vibrant, retrofuturistic world influenced by the 1960s, The Fantastic Four: First Steps introduces Marvel’s First Family — Reed Richards, also known as Mister Fantastic, Sue Storm as the Invisible Woman, Johnny Storm as the Human Torch, and Ben Grimm as The Thing — as they confront their greatest challenge yet,” the synopsis explains. “They must juggle their heroic duties with the strength of their familial bonds while defending Earth against a relentless cosmic entity known as Galactus and his mysterious Herald, Silver Surfer. To make matters worse, Galactus’ plan to consume the planet becomes deeply personal for them.”

    The cast features Pedro Pascal as Reed Richards/Mister Fantastic, Vanessa Kirby as Sue Storm/Invisible Woman, Joseph Quinn as Johnny Storm/Human Torch, and Ebon Moss-Bachrach as Ben Grimm/The Thing. Ralph Ineson takes on the role of the menacing Galactus, while Julia Garner portrays Shalla-Bal/Silver Surfer.

    The first official synopsis for ‘THE FANTASTIC FOUR: FIRST STEPS’ has been released:

    Set against the vibrant backdrop of a 1960s-inspired, retro-futuristic world, “The Fantastic Four: First Steps” introduces Marvel’s First Family—Reed Richards/Mister Fantastic, Sue… pic.twitter.com/gZK7kOJLxq

    — Fantastic Four Updates (@F4Update) November 15, 2024

    Actors Paul Walter Hauser, John Malkovich, Natasha Lyonne, and Sarah Niles are also part of the cast in unspecified roles. Whether Robert Downey Jr. will reprise his role as Doctor Doom, one of the Fantastic Four’s most formidable foes, is still uncertain. If he does return, it’s likely to be towards the end of the film or in a post-credits scene.

    Matt Shakman is directing The Fantastic Four, with Marvel Studios President Kevin Feige serving as producer. This film will kick off Phase Six of the MCU.

    The Fantastic Four: First Steps is set to hit theaters on July 25, 2025.