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7 Fantastic Four: First Steps Easter eggs and references you will have missed

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In a fresh, standalone chapter of the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), The Fantastic Four: First Steps embarks. This means viewers can dive right in without needing prior knowledge from any previous Marvel films. According to director Matt Shakman, there’s also no need to hunt for hidden references or Easter eggs within the film.

Incorrect, it’s not completely accurate. Shakman mentioned Marvel heroes in his conversation with TechRadar, but there are connections to the original Fantastic Four comics in Earth-828, where First Steps is set. These references include the name of Earth-828 itself, which can be considered one link.

Dive in to uncover the reasons behind the Marvel Cinematic Universe’s introduction of the Fantastic Four and unravel additional hidden references that you may not have spotted, straight from a die-hard fan like me!

What to Read Next

1. Earth-828

In the beginning of “First Steps”, it’s revealed that the most recent cinematic journey of the Fantastic Four unfolds in a different universe within the Marvel Cinematic Universe, specifically on Earth-828, rather than the universe (Earth-616) where the majority of Marvel films are set.

In the original content, there isn’t a counterpart to Earth-828, and this is due to the fact that the name was derived from Jack Kirby, one of the co-creators of the Fantastic Four, whose birthday falls on August 28th (8/28). This iconic artist illustrated 102 issues featuring Marvel’s first family, vividly depicting the stories penned by the other co-creator, Stan Lee.

In the upcoming movie “Avengers: Doomsday,” it’s significant to note that this film takes place in a universe separate from the rest of the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU). Although our favorite characters haven’t departed Earth-828 by the end of “First Steps,” a casual remark made early on, hinting at “parallel worlds existing on different planes of existence,” implies that Reed Richards is already familiar with the concept of the multiverse in theory.

2. Excelsior!

Yancy Street, once known as the residence of the Ever-Loving Blue-Eyed Character, is filled with numerous Easter eggs hidden within the names of its many stores, if one takes a closer look.

As Ben gazes into a storefront window, he notices a sign that says “Kaplan’s,” subtly hinting at the involvement of screenwriter Jeff Kaplan, who teamed up with Ian Springer to write the script.

In due course, you might notice a poster bearing the message, “Oog Returns from the Dead.” This iconic creature, known as the titular monster, was initially conceived by Jack Kirby for the comic book series Tales of Suspense in 1961 – coincidentally, the same year that the Fantastic Four made their initial appearance.

Another subtle nod can be found in The Greenwood Hotel, a reference to Dawn Greenwood, the companion of the male Silver Surfer. Additionally, Westview Appliance is another allusion, serving as the main setting in director Matt Shakman’s previous Marvel series, WandaVision.

As a gamer, I wonder if any of you have stumbled upon a shop called Stanley’s Service Centre recently. It feels like Stan “The Man” Lee might be making a cameo there, given his passing in 2018. Unfortunately, this seems to be the closest we can get to seeing him in action now.

In a second tribute, First Steps designates Stan’s rocket ship, Excelsior, named after the Latin term he frequently used to conclude his monthly Marvel comics column. Interestingly, the word Excelsior translates to “higher” or “upwards and onward,” perfectly symbolizing the spacecraft’s journey.

3. Johnny getting hot for aliens

Following Johnny Storm’s encounter with Shalla-Bal, the female Silver Surfer, there are whispers about his apparent fascination towards this “alluring alien woman.” However, comic enthusiasts might recall that this isn’t an entirely novel affection for Johnny Torch when it comes to women from other planets.

Indeed, one of Johnny Storm’s most significant romantic relationships was held with Lyja, a Skrull who had disguised herself as Alicia Masters for some time, utilizing her form-changing abilities. Yes, the very same Alicia who has maintained a long-term relationship with Ben Grimm, also known as The Thing.

In the most recent edition of the ongoing Fantastic Four series (issue number 25), Johnny found himself in an unusual romance with a bug-like extraterrestrial. Despite her appearance, the story itself is quite touching and appealing.

4. Fantastic cameos

As a gaming enthusiast, I can tell you that none of the stars from the Fox-era Fantastic Four movies made a guest appearance here. But, interestingly enough, actors from a 1994 Fantastic Four movie, which never saw the light of day, make a shocking appearance instead.

In the early scenes of the movie “First Steps“, you might not be familiar with them, but Alex Hyde-White (as Reed Richards), Rebecca Staab (Sue Storm), Jay Underwood (Johnny Storm), and Michael Bailey Smith (Ben Grimm) are among a group who can be seen cheering enthusiastically, saying “Thank you, Fantastic Four”.

It’s quite poignant that the actors who portrayed the Fantastic Four never got to witness their performances on screen, as the story unfolds for viewers today. It appears the project was destined not to be released, with whispers indicating it was merely a tactic for executive producers Roger Corman and Bernd Eichinger to maintain control over the Fantastic Four rights a bit longer.

Without a doubt, it’s plausible to propose that some unusual event transpired, regardless of the truth.

5. Super crossover

During Ben’s inaugural trip to Yancy Street, a gaggle of youngsters requests The Thing to elevate a vehicle and demonstrate his might. Engaging with them playfully, Ben feigns it’s too heavy before jesting about hurling it towards the school. This moment is endearing, but what makes this scene particularly intriguing is the car featured in it.

The vehicle resembling a bug with a green coat appears unusually like the one depicted on the cover of DC’s Action Comics #1, where Superman initially made his comic book debut. Both vehicles are raised above them in a strikingly identical manner.

In an unexpected twist, Marvel’s nod to its main rival is actually a heartfelt tribute to the Golden and Silver Eras of comics, as well as Superman’s nostalgic take on those times, which hit the big screen mere weeks ago.

In passing, it’s worth mentioning that the role of Rachel Rozman, whom teacher Ben is trying to impress, is portrayed by the extraordinary Natasha Lyonne. Interestingly, she made her Marvel Cinematic Universe debut as a completely different character last year in What If… season three.

In summary, WandaVision introduces a unique character – a baby half-human, half-duck named Byrdie the Duck, voiced by Natasha. This hybrid is incredibly powerful, even among the most potent beings. Fortunately, Byrdie does not appear in First Steps and avoids causing confusion.

6. Post credit villains

The production First Steps opens and closes with scenes from a fictional version of the Fantastic Four cartoon, which deviates from the actual television shows that were produced in the 60s, 70s, 90s, and 2000s. (Interestingly enough, it shares similar animation style as the original 60s version.)

In these scenes, filmmakers can introduce additional villains that were previously just hinted at, such as Red Ghost, Diablo, The Wizard, The Puppeteer, The Mad Thinker, and Dragon Man. Notably, Dragon Man has developed a relationship with the comic book versions of the Fantastic Four and their offspring, shifting from a foe to an ally.

In the initial post-credits scene (before the animated segments), it’s none other than Doctor Doom who makes an appearance, albeit his face remains hidden. However, his signature mask – belonging to Victor Von Doom – is clearly in sight. This appearance leaves us wondering if this iteration of Doctor Doom is the one Robert Downey Jr will portray in the upcoming Avengers movie, or if it’s a Doctor Doom hailing from an alternate reality?

Despite the uncertainty about it, this tantalizing hint effectively sets the stage for Avengers: Doomsday. Although Latveria, the nation governed by Doom, was noticeably absent during United Nations meetings, a subtle clue lies in its empty seat. What’s more elusive is the music cue called ‘Doom?’ (by Alan Silvestri) that resonates during Victor’s brief appearance at the end.

7. Jamie Christopher

As the end credits unfold, they honor Jamie Edward Christopher, our beloved late first assistant director, who tragically passed away in August.

It’s possible that you’re not familiar with him yet, but Jamie has been involved in a significant number of Marvel movies that you likely enjoy, such as “Thor: The Dark World”, “Guardians of the Galaxy”, “Avengers: Age of Ultron”, “Black Widow”, “Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness”, and “Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania”.

It was intended that Jamie would contribute to “The Fantastic Four: First Steps”, but unfortunately, he passed away before doing so. For more information about him, you can watch his interview in the episode of “Assembled” called ‘The Making of Black Widow’.

The Fantastic Four: First Steps is out now in cinemas.

The latest print edition from Digital Spy is out! You can grab a copy of “Oasis – Live in ’25” from newsstands or purchase it online, currently available for only £8.99.

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2025-07-25 19:20

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