EntertainmentThe internet adores him. Will this streaming sensation join Marvel?

The internet adores him. Will this streaming sensation join Marvel?

Pedro Pascal at the premiere of "The Last of Us" in Los Angeles
Pedro Pascal at the premiere of "The Last of Us" in Los Angeles
Images source: © Getty Images | Film Magic, Jesse Grant
10:04 AM EST, November 17, 2023

Pedro Pascal has certainly been enjoying his moment in the spotlight. The 48-year-old actor has been involved in several high-profile projects and shows no signs of slowing down. His portfolio is set to expand even further with a new role in a Marvel production, much to the delight of comic book enthusiasts.

From the first season of "Game of Thrones" to "Kingsman", "Wonder Woman 1984", and three seasons of "The Mandalorian", Pedro Pascal has proven that he relishes being part of ever-evolving, big-ticket franchises. Age-old comic fans are now wondering: will he be part of the latest Marvel project? It might be a possibility, especially as rumors grow about a new "Fantastic Four" production.

Pascal as Mr Fantastic?

Finding the right actor to play Reed Richards, also known as Mr. Fantastic, has created quite a stir. Hollywood heavyweights like Adam Driver, Dev Patel, John Krasinski, Ryan Gosling, and Matt Smith have all been considered for the role. But according to "Deadline", the current front-runner could be the star of "The Last of Us".

Allegedly, Pedro Pascal, recognized for his role as the drug lord in "Narcos", is in talks regarding the terms of his possible involvement. A major factor in these discussions will surely be aligning time schedules. The actor currently has a full plate, with "Gladiator 2" set to shoot later this year following an actors' strike, plus filming for the second part of HBO Max's hit next year.

The Last of Us | Official Trailer | Max

Who else might join the cast?

The cast for the new "Fantastic Four" is being filled in with some promising names. Vanessa Kirby, known for "Pieces of a Woman", "The Crown", and "Napoleon", is set to play Sue Storm/Invisible Woman. Joseph Quinn from "Stranger Things" is expected to portray Johnny Storm/Human Torch. While there's a good chance Ebon Moss-Bachrach ("The Punisher") could be on screen, his character is yet to be revealed. Spanish actor Antonio Banderas is rumored to possibly take on the role of Galactus.

Behind the camera, Matt Shakman, known for his work on "WandaVision", will be directing. The release date for the new installment of "Fantastic Four" is said to be February 14, 2025.

The origin of "Fantastic Four"

Created by Stan Lee and Jack Kirby in 1961 for Marvel Comics, the Fantastic Four comprise a team of fictional comic characters. They were conceived during a time when American fears of losing the Cold War to the USSR were running high. The team stands out as each member has a unique set of superhuman abilities.

Fantastic Four | Official Trailer [HD] | 20th Century FOX

Mr. Fantastic, born Reed Richards and rumored to be played by Pedro Pascal, is the team's leading scientist. His body obtained an extraordinary flexibility, akin to rubber, following exposure to cosmic radiation.

Of course, this wouldn't be the first time the Fantastic Four have been brought to the big screen. So far, there have been four attempts. Despite them being of varying quality and success, they've showcased a variety of adaptations. The cast list has included names such as Ioan Gruffudd, Jessica Alba, Michael Chiklis, Chris Evans, Miles Teller, Kate Mara, Jamie Bell, and Michael B. Jordan.

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