Marvel appears to be moving forward with sequel plans for The Fantastic Four: First Steps well before its theatrical debut, with reports suggesting an untitled follow-up is already in development alongside Black Panther 3 and Blade.
A recent Variety report reveals Disney has penciled in a mystery Marvel movie for December 15, 2028 - potentially positioning it as the Fantastic Four sequel - following three other confirmed MCU releases earlier that year.
The studio's apparent confidence in First Steps manifests through multiple strategic moves, having already cast its stars as key players in Avengers: Doomsday before audiences have even seen their initial outing together.
This forward-planning approach contrasts sharply with Marvel's treatment of several recent underperformers from Phases 4 and 5. Eternals appears shelved indefinitely, while lukewarm box office returns make sequels unlikely for Quantumania, The Marvels, and Brave New World.
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The challenge becomes clearer when examining potential candidates for future sequels. Shang-Chi retains strong fan interest despite his prolonged absence, while Doctor Strange's multiversal adventures might feel less relevant post-Secret Wars.
Chris Hemsworth's ambiguous social media posts have left Thor's future uncertain following Love and Thunder's mixed reception, leaving Fantastic Four as perhaps Marvel's safest bet for immediate franchise expansion - provided First Steps delivers on its considerable promise.
The studio's immediate slate includes Spider-Man: Brand New Day (July 2026), Avengers Doomsday (December 2026), and Avengers: Secret Wars (December 2027), with the early Fantastic Four sequel positioning potentially filling Marvel's late 2028 slot.
