It could just be a matter of time before we seeAustin Butlerenter the Marvel Cinematic Universe, and one character he could potentially play is Johnny Storm of the Fantastic Four. While there have been previous iterations of the superhero foursome in past movies, the MCU will reimagine the group with an all-new cast. A newFantastic Fourfilm set in the MCU is currently in development, though the movie isn’t set to be released until 2025, and it’s unclear when casting announcements will be made.
For now, actors are campaigning to get certain roles, and according to the rumor mill, Butler is hoping to become the next Human Torch following his acclaimed performance inElvis. OnThe Hot Micpodcast (viaThe Direct), news scooper Jeff Sneider reported that Butler’s agents were actively “putting him up for Human Torch” amid word thatFantastic Fourcasting is underway. Along with a plannedX-Menreboot that’s not currently on the schedule,Fantastic Fouris said to be seen as a “crown jewel” in Hollywood with many actors hoping to be “part of those two franchises.”
Time will tell if Butler gets cast in the role, as even if these rumors are true, he’s going to be competing against many other hopefuls for the part.NopestarBrandon Perea is publicly campaigningto play Johnny Storm, while many fans havefantasy-cast Zac Efronas the fiery superhero. Former Human Torch actorChris Evans has even teased that he’d be up for reprising the role, and given the existence of the multiverse in the MCU, that’s not exactly off the table.
For now, Butler continues to enjoy ongoing praise for his work inElvis, a performance that some say will get him an Oscar nomination for Best Actor. Fans will see a more comedic side of him on Saturday when he makes his hosting debut for the sketch comedy seriesSaturday Night Live. The actor can also be seen in the upcoming sequelDune: Part Two, which just recently wrapped production, as well as Jeff Nichols' upcoming dramaThe Bikeriders.
Related:Doctor Doom Rumored to Have a Minor Role in Fantastic Four’s MCU Debut
Who Will Be the New Fantastic Four?
All of these roles are coveted beyond Johnny Storm, but no official casting announcements have yet been made. John Krasinski recently commented on potentially returning as Reed Richards after playing a variant of that character inDoctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness. He says that he hasn’t been given a call from Kevin Feige and Co. about a potential return at this time, casting serious doubt on having Krasinski play the MCU’s version of Mister Fantastic.
Krasinski’s wife, Emily Blunt, is also someone that many fans want to see inFantastic Four, hopeful that she will play Invisible Woman. Blunt has dismissed this idea, but even if she’s not personally interested, shewants to see Krasinski do more with his roleas Reed Richards.
“I was really happy for him because I think he’s a huge fan," Blunt said, viaHeyUGuys. “And I understand why it’s such an ardent passionate religion for people. It’s a huge part of our cinematic history now. So he was thrilled… Well, I hope [we can see him in the role again]. I hope so. You never know.”
