Summary:
- Julia Garner joins “The Fantastic Four” as Shalla-Bal, with rumors hinting at Silver Surfer’s MCU debut and a potential appearance by Galactus, with Javier Bardem speculated to play the role.
- The film is directed by Matt Shakman and written by Eric Pearson, slated for release on July 25, 2025.
Julia Garner has joined the cast of “The Fantastic Four” in a significant role, alongside previously announced actors Pedro Pascal, Vanessa Kirby, Joseph Quinn, and Ebon Moss-Bachrach.
According to Deadline, Garner will portray the MCU’s iteration of Shalla-Bal, a character originating from Marvel comics.
Shalla-Bal, first introduced in 1968’s “Silver Surfer #1,” was created by Stan Lee and John Buscema and is known as the romantic interest of Norrin Radd, aka the Silver Surfer, with rumors suggesting a female version of Silver Surfer will feature in the film.
Julia Garner, celebrated for her acclaimed performances, notably in the Emmy-winning role of Ruth Langmore in Netflix’s Ozark, and her portrayal of Anna Sorokin in Inventing Anna, brings her talent to The Fantastic Four.
With a diverse filmography including Grandma, The Assistant, and The Royal Hotel, she’s set to star in the upcoming Wolf Man remake by Blumhouse Productions, currently in production.
Directed by Matt Shakman (known for WandaVision) and scripted by Eric Pearson (Thor: Ragnarok, Black Widow), The Fantastic Four is rumored to feature Galactus as the main antagonist, with the potential for Doctor Doom to appear later to set up a sequel.
Javier Bardem has been speculated to portray Galactus.
The Fantastic Four to Introduce Silver Surfer to the MCU
The Silver Surfer has enjoyed popularity in Marvel comic books, video games, and animated projects, yet live-action appearances have been sparse.
A portrayal of Silver Surfer, played by Doug Jones with Laurence Fishburne providing the voice, appeared in the 2007 sequel Fantastic Four: Rise of the Silver Surfer.
Although a spinoff film exploring this version of the character was planned, it has yet to materialize.
Recent years have seen rumors of a Silver Surfer movie planned by Marvel and Disney, though it has yet to materialize.
The Fantastic Four is scheduled for release in theaters on July 25, 2025.
