Marvel Studios‘ The Fantastic Four: First Steps kicks off a bold new era for the MCU, introducing not just the iconic team — Reed Richards, Sue Storm, Johnny Storm, and Ben Grimm — but also a cosmic wildcard: Franklin Richards.
While the film follows the familiar battle to save Earth, it’s the emotional ending and the post-credits scene that fans can’t stop talking about.
A Shocking Climax
In the film’s climax, the Fantastic Four go head-to-head with Galactus. The cosmic villain reveals that Sue and Reed’s infant son, Franklin, is no ordinary child — he is a cosmic god in the making. Galactus even offers a chilling deal: spare Earth in exchange for the boy.
Sue, however, makes a powerful stand:
“I will not sacrifice my son for Earth, but I will also not sacrifice the Earth for my son.”
With the help of Silver Surfer, Sue manages to teleport Galactus far away, but she collapses from the effort and doesn’t wake up.
It’s only when Reed places Franklin next to her that she stirs. As the child touches her, she comes back to life — proving that Galactus was right about Franklin’s powers.
Marvel’s Next Big Threat — and Savior
The movie teases the beginning of Franklin’s journey, but the post-credits scene jumps ahead four years. Sue is reading to her son when a cloaked figure suddenly appears beside him — likely Doctor Doom, played by none other than Robert Downey Jr.
The screen fades to black with a teaser:
“The Fantastic Four will return in Avengers: Doomsday.”
Why Franklin Matters
In Marvel Comics, Franklin Richards is an Omega-level mutant capable of creating universes and defeating cosmic beings. The film’s introduction of his powers hints that he could become the most powerful character in the MCU.
With Doctor Doom’s threat looming, Marvel’s future may rest in the hands of this god-like child.
