John Krasinski was one of several surprises that ignited excitement in audiences when he made his unexpected appearance as Mr. Fantastic (Reed Richards) in Marvel StudiosDoctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness. Krasinski’s brief appearance as Mr. Fantastic may have unfortunately been his last despite the arrival of a newFantastic Fourfilm set to release in 2025.
Krasinski played a version of Reed Richards, who surprisingly crossed paths with Doctor Strange in an alternate universe.Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madnessplaced the titular sorcerer in many chaotic encounters, facing off against different versions of himself and his notable companions. The appearance of Richards in an alternate universe indicates that other versions of him exist, making the recast an effortless exploration, especially since Krasinski’s version of Richards died painfully onscreen.
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As reported byThe Wrap, Krasinski shed some light on the status of his involvement with the Marvel Cinematic Universe during a press day forAmazon Prime’sJack Ryan, which Krasinski will lead as the titular character for a third season. Krasinski disclosed that the needle has not moved regarding his return as Mr. Fantastic, signalling that a recast is presumptively in the works. “There aren’t any discussions at all, the only discussion I had was actually in the second-to-last week of ‘Jack Ryan,'” stated Krasinski.
Despite the unfortunate news, Krasinski’s official departure from the role remains unconfirmed. Casting decisions forFantastic Foursit in limbo, with no indication that someone other than Krasinski will lead the noteworthy role. The audience’s excitement whenKrasinski appeared as Mr. Fantasticis not something Marvel Studios can ignore, but if the decision forward does not involve Krasinski, theJack Ryanstar reportedly found the experience one worth remembering. “I was honored to do it,” stated Krasinski. “I’m a big fan of all those characters and that world, so to get to play in that sandbox for one day was a real thrill.”
Fantastic Fourhas been a revolving door of change, but things are moving in a promising direction.Spider-Man: No Way Homedirector Jon Watts was hired to direct the project but withdrew from the position, whichWandaVisiondirector Matt Shakmanlater filled. The film will usher in Phase Six for the MCU, with an initial release date set for Jun 11, 2025, but that has also shifted. The long-awaited film will now look to hit theaters in 2025. Casting decisions are not on the horizon anytime soon, leaving some time for fans to hold onto the idea that Krasinski may return to the role once more.
