In The Fantastic Four: First Steps, we’ll undoubtedly witness Mr. Fantastic, Invisible Woman, Human Torch, and The Thing unleash their extraordinary abilities as they fight to protect Earth from the colossal threat of Galactus. But might Franklin Richards also step into the spotlight?

In an interview with Empire Magazine, Vanessa Kirby, portraying Sue Storm, offered a tantalizing hint that’s sent ripples through the MCU fanbase: “It’s not just adults that have superpowers.”

Anyone familiar with the Fantastic Four comics knows this is a watershed moment for the team. Marvel Studios is on the verge of introducing arguably the most powerful being in existence—and perhaps his super-genius sister too? Let’s examine why Sue’s pregnancy carries profound consequences for the MCU and the broader Marvel multiverse.

Franklin is among the most formidable entities in the Marvel Universe. He can reshape reality and matter with a thought, even conjuring entire pocket dimensions from nothing. His powers extend further, granting him telepathy, telekinesis, and the ability to project his consciousness across the astral plane.

In essence, Franklin is the one mortal whose power rivals that of cosmic titans like the Celestials and Galactus. As he ages, his abilities will only intensify. The FF have encountered multiple adult versions of Franklin from alternate futures, hinting that he may one day evolve into an immortal guardian of the entire Marvel Universe.

With this in mind, could Franklin be the key to stopping Galactus? Kirby’s remark strongly implies we’ll see the young hero demonstrate his powers in some capacity.

Art by Paco Medina. (Image Credit: Marvel)The cast of The Fantastic Four will also star alongside other established MCU heroes in next year’s Avengers: Doomsday. Perhaps Franklin will play a pivotal role in the battle against Doctor Doom.

Earlier this week, the official runtime for The Fantastic Four: First Steps was confirmed—making it the longest MCU film since 2023’s Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3. Last week, we got our clearest glimpse yet of the film’s version of Galactus, portrayed by Ralph Ineson, through a leaked Snapple promotional clip that revealed his design. This followed a revealing Funko Pop! spoiler for The Fantastic Four: First Steps.