According to recent confirmation by director Matt Shakman, it appears that John Malkovich has been removed from the cast of the upcoming Fantastic Four movie, set to be released in a week’s time. This development was previously suspected last month.
In the upcoming film, Malkovich was scheduled to portray the Red Ghost character, appearing in an introductory scene depicting the Fantastic Four’s earlier encounters with the Red Ghost and his Super Apes. Notably, Malkovich was featured in the initial promotional trailer as well.
What happened?
As a cinephile, I was initially thrilled to learn of John Malkovich’s involvement in the upcoming project. However, recent reports from Variety suggest that he has been removed from the cast. While this is undeniably disappointing, Shakman, the director, has graciously acknowledged Malkovich’s exceptional performance. He expressed that Malkovich was nothing short of brilliant and gave it his all. Regardless, I remain optimistic about the film’s potential success.
The reason is said to be due to the use of so many characters.
Shakman explained that when crafting the ’60s-inspired future setting, introducing multiple villains, main characters, and a child character, there was a great deal of material that needed to be managed. Consequently, certain elements were trimmed down in order to refine the movie for its final release version.
Shakman previously worked with Malkovich in Cut Bank.
Shakman expressed regret that the final cut of the movie didn’t feature him, as this individual is not only one of his most admired human beings but also a significant source of inspiration. As someone straddling theater, film, and television, there’s no one more inspiring than the founder of Steppenwolf Theater Company. His remarkable achievements on stage as an actor, behind the scenes as a director in both theater and film, and his outstanding performance as a film actor – it was a privilege to have him on board.
Initially, when it was revealed that he would be cast in a superhero movie, Malkovich expressed his disdain for such films to GQ: “My lack of involvement had nothing to do with artistic reasons whatsoever. I simply didn’t care for the contracts they offered.
He added, “Creating these movies can be quite demanding… If you expect me to dangle from a crane in front of a green screen for half a year, then compensate me. If you’re not willing to pay me, that’s fine, but then I won’t participate, as I prefer being on stage, or directing a play, or engaging in some other activity instead.
Release Info
The initial journey of The Fantastic Four begins on July 21 in Los Angeles, with a wide release scheduled for July 25 in cinemas. Led by director Matt Shakman, this movie marks the start of an exciting new chapter for Marvel’s original family within the Marvel Cinematic Universe.
The film features Pedro Pascal portraying Reed Richards/Mister Fantastic, Vanessa Kirby as Sue Storm/Invisible Woman, Joseph Quinn playing Johnny Storm/Human Torch, and Ebon Moss-Bachrach taking on the role of Ben Grimm/The Thing.
They’re joined by Ralph Ineson, Julia Garner, Paul Walter Hauser, Natasha Lyonne, and Sarah Niles.
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2025-07-16 21:34