Marvel Sets 'Fantastic Four' Sequel for 2028

Marvel is reportedly developing a sequel to The Fantastic Four: First Steps, even though the highly anticipated film is still over a month away from its release.

According to a Variety report, an untitled Fantastic Four sequel is among several undated Marvel projects currently in the works. These include Ryan Coogler's Black Panther 3 and the long-awaited Blade reboot.

News of a Fantastic Four follow-up coincides with Disney's announcement this week of a fourth Marvel film scheduled for 2028, though the studio has not revealed its title. The mystery project is set for December 15, 2028, following three other Marvel releases already planned for February, May, and November of that year.

While the first Fantastic Four film under Disney has yet to premiere, it’s logical that Marvel is already mapping out the future for its heroes. The studio appears confident that First Steps will resonate with audiences and has announced that the film’s cast will play significant roles in the upcoming Avengers: Doomsday.

It’s also worth considering which other Marvel projects might warrant sequels, especially given the mixed reception of several films from recent MCU phases.

We know that Eternals won’t be getting a sequel anytime soon, and it seems unlikely Marvel will rush to develop follow-ups for Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania, The Marvels, or Captain America: Brave New World due to their underwhelming box office results. As for recent successes, the Guardians of the Galaxy series is expected to be put on hold following director James Gunn’s departure.

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Fans have eagerly awaited more of Shang-Chi, though it will have been five years since his last MCU appearance by the time he returns in Avengers: Doomsday. Doctor Strange seems ready for another solo film, though his multiverse adventures would have fit better within the current saga, which is now concluding.

And what about Thor? The character's latest film was widely seen as a disappointment, and actor Chris Hemsworth recently fueled speculation about his departure from the role after sharing a cryptic message with fans.

Given the circumstances, a swift Fantastic Four sequel to build on the expected success of First Steps seems probable — provided the film meets expectations. For now, Marvel’s schedule includes Spider-Man: Brand New Day on July 31, 2026, Avengers: Doomsday on December 18, 2026, and Avengers: Secret Wars on December 17, 2027.