Fantastic Four Theory Connects Galactus & Franklin Richards in a Shocking Way

A new theory suggests The Fantastic Four: First Steps may reframe one of Marvel’s most iconic villains. According to fan speculation, the MCU’s version of Galactus may have a deeper connection to the Fantastic Four than expected, potentially tying into the film’s larger multiversal storyline.

Fantastic Four theory suggests Franklin Richards and Galactus are the same

A popular theory based on The Fantastic Four: First Steps trailer suggests that Galactus may be a future version of Franklin Richards. The film teases both Galactus’ MCU debut and Sue Storm’s pregnancy, hinting at Franklin’s arrival. In Marvel Comics, Franklin is the son of Reed Richards and Sue Storm and possesses vast psionic and reality-warping powers.

The theory claims Franklin travels back in time as Galactus to destroy Earth and eliminate his past self before he can oppose him. This would explain Galactus’ simultaneous appearance with Sue’s pregnancy.

It also aligns with Franklin’s known time travel abilities in the comics and his potential to become a cosmic-level threat. In the Earth X storyline, Franklin Richards actually becomes Galactus, losing his memories and consuming planets hosting unborn Celestials.

Ralph Ineson portrays Galactus in The Fantastic Four: First Steps, while Julia Garner plays the reimagined Silver Surfer, Shalla-Bal. In Earth X, Shalla-Bal also serves as a herald of Franklin-Galactus, which further supports the theory’s comic origins.

The inclusion of time travel would mark a major shift for the MCU. While Avengers: Endgame involved alternate timelines, this theory introduces linear time travel through Franklin’s abilities. If accurate, Franklin’s arc would mirror Wanda Maximoff’s, another powerful mutant-turned-antagonist in Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness.

Director Matt Shakman confirmed that The Fantastic Four: First Steps will connect directly to Avengers: Doomsday and Avengers: Secret Wars, where Franklin’s powers are expected to play a crucial role in stabilizing the multiverse. The character’s introduction as both a hero and villain could significantly shape the future of the MCU’s Phase Six.

The Fantastic Four: First Steps releases on July 25, 2025, with Pedro Pascal, Vanessa Kirby, Joseph Quinn, and Ebon Moss-Bachrach starring as Marvel’s first family.

Originally reported by Anubhav Chaudhry on SuperHeroHype.

Source: Comingsoon.net