The Fantastic Four: First Steps does have a post-credits scene. In fact, it has two: a mid-credits scene and a post-credits stinger after the credits have finished rolling, confirming that Marvel’s latest superhero blockbuster follows the studio’s established tradition of rewarding patient viewers. Marvel fans heading to theaters this weekend are getting double the bonus content, with both scenes serving distinct purposes for the franchise’s future.
The highly anticipated MCU debut of Marvel’s First Family delivers on expectations with substantial post-credits material that directly connects to upcoming Marvel projects. Text then appears on-screen, which reads, “The Fantastic Four will return in Avengers: Doomsday.” This confirmation solidifies the team’s central role in Marvel’s Phase 6 plans.
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Two Distinct End Credit Scenes Revealed
The Fantastic Four: First Steps has two: a mid-credits scene and a post-credits stinger after the credits have finished rolling, each offering different rewards for dedicated viewers. The first appears during the credits roll, while the second requires staying until the very end.
The mid-credits sequence takes place four years after the main events of the film. Marvel’s First Family is still living in the Baxter Building, though, Sue is reading The Very Hungry Caterpillar to a now four-year-old Franklin on the couch. This domestic scene quickly shifts when an unexpected visitor arrives.
Key Points Summary
- Two total end credit scenes: one mid-credits, one post-credits
- Mid-credits scene features four-year time jump with major villain reveal
- Post-credits scene shows animated Fantastic Four cartoon segment
- Both scenes connect to broader MCU storylines and future projects
- Confirms team’s appearance in Avengers: Doomsday (December 2026)
Doctor Doom Makes His MCU Debut
The mid-credits scene delivers Marvel fans’ most anticipated moment. Just when she finds the book, she hears a noise behind her and turns around to see a cloaked figure holding a very familiar silver mask, while Franklin looks on with interest. This marks the first on-screen appearance of Doctor Doom since Robert Downey Jr.’s casting announcement at San Diego Comic-Con 2024.
The villain’s arrival creates immediate questions about how the Fantastic Four will transition from their alternate universe to the main MCU timeline. It’s still unclear how or when Doom, or the Fantastic Four, make it over from Earth-282 to the main Marvel timeline, setting up major plot developments for future films.
The scene’s placement four years after the main story suggests significant time will pass before audiences see these characters again. This strategic gap allows Marvel to develop other storylines while building anticipation for the team’s next appearance.
Animated Cartoon Segment Provides Fan Service
The post-credits stinger offers pure entertainment value for longtime comic book enthusiasts. After the rest of the credits have run, there’s one more fun stinger to reward you for your patience: the opener of an episode of the Fantastic Four cartoon that we got a glimpse of earlier in the movie.
This animated sequence features classic Fantastic Four villains and showcases the team’s iconic dynamics. We even get to hear the Thing’s catchphrase, “It’s clobberin’ time.” The cartoon format pays homage to the characters’ rich multimedia history beyond just comic books.
Connection to Broader Marvel Plans
Both end credit scenes serve Marvel’s larger storytelling strategy. The mid-credits sequence directly sets up Avengers: Doomsday, scheduled for December 2026 release. Meanwhile, the post-credits cartoon segment reinforces the franchise’s commitment to honoring source material across different media formats.
The scenes also connect to other recent Marvel projects. We’re expecting the start of Doomsday to link up this plot thread with the Thunderbolts* post-credits scene, which saw the foursome’s ship enter Earth-616’s airspace. This interconnected approach demonstrates Marvel’s continued emphasis on shared universe storytelling.
These revelations confirm that how many end credit scenes in Fantastic Four creates substantial foundation for upcoming MCU developments. The dual approach of story advancement and fan service ensures both casual viewers and dedicated comic book enthusiasts find value in staying through the credits.
The strategic placement of Doctor Doom’s introduction alongside the animated tribute creates perfect balance between future setup and nostalgic celebration. Marvel fans now have clear confirmation that their patience during credits will be rewarded with meaningful content that directly impacts the franchise’s direction.
What did you think of the Fantastic Four end credit scenes? Share your theories about how Doctor Doom will factor into future Marvel movies and let us know which scene resonated most with you.