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The Amazing First Look at The Fantastic Four: First Steps
Finally hitting theaters, The Fantastic Four: First Steps kicks off Marvel’s monumental Phase 6 of the MCU. Known for its surprise cameos and hidden references, this film introduces some lesser-known villains from the comic books that might have flown under your radar.
Most people are familiar with famous foes like Galactus and Doctor Doom, but there’s one character who’s often forgotten: Mole Man. Below, we cover every obscure comic book character referenced in the film—though not all of them make a full appearance. One villain, in particular, was cut from the movie for time.
Warning: Spoilers ahead for The Fantastic Four: First Steps! If you haven’t seen the movie yet, better to stop here. If you’ve already watched it, keep reading for a deep dive into some of the lesser-known comic book villains shown or mentioned.
Mole Man — Harvey Elder
In the movie, we meet Harvey Elder, known as Mole Man, played hilariously by Paul Walter Hauser (from Cobra Kai). He’s a classic adversary, debuting back in the first Fantastic Four comics from 1961. In the stories, Mole Man rules over a group of underground hybrids called the Moloids and is often scheming to take over the surface world.
In the film, Mole Man tries to invade the surface but is ultimately defeated by the Fantastic Four. Interestingly, he strikes a deal with Sue Storm to keep New York safe by leading its citizens underground — a clever twist on his comic book villainy.
Super-Apes — The Soldiers of Red Ghost
Early in the film, Reed Richards fights a Super-Ape while reminiscing about past battles. The ape kicks him off a building in New York but Reed uses his stretchy powers to hang on and send the ape soaring into the ocean.
In the comics, these super-primates are part of Red Ghost’s team, assembled by the Soviet scientist Ivan Kragoff during the Space Race. Red Ghost first appeared in Fantastic Four #13 in 1963, along with his trained, power-enhanced apes, each with unique abilities. The movie’s ape might be Peotor, a notable member of the team.
Although Red Ghost himself doesn’t show up in the film, his presence is felt. Director Matt Shakman revealed that John Malkovich was cast as Red Ghost, but his cameo was cut for time. Still, his role could easily pop up in future MCU stories.
Red Ghost — The Scientist Villain
During the opening montage of the film, a news broadcast highlights the origins and achievements of the team, including a mention of Red Ghost and his Super-Apes. Yet, Malkovich’s portrayal of him was cut, even though he was meant to appear briefly.
Comic book history notes Red Ghost (Ivan Kragoff) as a recurring foe, battling heroes ranging from the Avengers to Spider-Man. Known for his love of adventure and his team of super-apes, he’s a dangerous foe with a long history—and a character who may make future appearances in the MCU.
Mad Thinker — Julius W.
In the movie, a quick flash shows a building moving and a child in danger—something Reed Richards attributes to the Mad Thinker. Though the villain doesn’t appear directly, the scene alludes to him. Originally, John Malkovich was supposed to portray Julius “The Mad Thinker,” but his cameo was cut.
In the comics, the Mad Thinker made his debut in Fantastic Four #15 (1963). He’s a brilliant genius eager to steal Reed Richards’s advanced technology and use it for his own schemes. Over the years, he’s teamed up with other villains like the Mad Scientists and has a long history of creating chaos in New York.
Puppet Master — Philip Masters
In the film, Reed mentions keeping an eye on various crime bosses around NYC, including Puppet Master. This villain debuted in Fantastic Four #12 in 1962. He’s a mad scientist who uses radioactive clay to create puppets resembling real people, which he can control at will.
In the comics, Puppet Master is obsessed with the Thing and even marries Alicia Masters, his adopted stepdaughter. Fans thought actress Natasha Lyonne might play him, but her character, Rachel Rozman, is a new love interest for the Thing—so Puppet Master’s appearance is still possible in future stories.
Wizard — Bentley Wittman
Another character referenced during the film is the Wizard, a notorious crime lord. First seen in Strange Tales #102 (1963), the Wizard is a scientist and a master of stage magic, often using his tricks to outwit the heroes.
He later forms the villain team the Frightful Four, which includes various heavy hitters like Hydro-Man, Medusa, Sandman, and Paste-Pot Pete. The MCU’s version might bring him on later as a recurring threat to the team.
Diablo — Esteban Corazón de Ablo
Also mentioned in passing is Diablo, first appearing in Fantastic Four #30 (1964). A scientist turned sorcerer, Diablo sold his soul to Mephisto (recently introduced in Ironheart) for a longer life. Living in Transylvania, he encounters the team during their vacation.
In the comics, Diablo is buried beneath his castle after a mob’s angry mob, only to be freed later. He offers a potion to restore the Thing’s human form—though it’s a trap, leading to a classic showdown. His storyline has likely been altered here, considering the film’s focus on crime and villains.
Final Thoughts
The Fantastic Four: First Steps is now in theaters. If you love Marvel history, check out our list of upcoming Marvel movies and shows or learn how to watch the movies in order. And remember, in the MCU, even the lesser-known villains could return in future stories, so these references are just the beginning.
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