UPDATE: The highly anticipated film The Fantastic Four: First Steps has just made waves by bringing back the beloved character H.E.R.B.I.E. after a 20-year absence from the big screen. Released on June 29, 2025, this latest installment not only showcases the dynamic superhero team in the 828 universe but also serves as a significant leap for the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) in expanding its narrative possibilities.
This film marks a pivotal moment, as it is the first MCU entry to exist entirely outside the traditional 616 universe. Fans are buzzing about the new direction, especially with the inclusion of H.E.R.B.I.E., who has quickly become a standout character thanks to his quirky design and comedic moments, including a hilarious encounter with Galactus looking for Reed and Sue’s son.
Interestingly, this robot assistant was almost part of the 2005 film directed by Tim Story. A cut scene featured H.E.R.B.I.E. in a tender moment between Reed Richards and Sue Storm, revealing their budding romance and character dynamics. However, this scene was ultimately removed, leaving fans to wonder what might have been.
In this deleted scene, as Reed rummaged through his old projects, he encounters a dormant H.E.R.B.I.E. Sue humorously remarks that Reed needs a “janitor” just before a romantic mishap ensues with The Thing awkwardly interrupting. This moment, while not included in the final cut, offered early insights into the characters’ relationships and added depth to the narrative.
While some might view the absence of H.E.R.B.I.E. in 2005 as a disappointment, it highlights the evolution of superhero films. At that time, the genre lacked the creative freedom seen today. With a budget of $100 million, the technology to bring H.E.R.B.I.E. to life realistically was not yet available, making the robot more of a relic than a character.
Fans are celebrating H.E.R.B.I.E.’s return in First Steps, as his engaging personality and design resonate with audiences in a way that feels fresh and exciting. The film expertly captures the essence of the Fantastic Four’s close-knit relationships, making them relatable and endearing.
As the MCU continues to evolve, the inclusion of characters like H.E.R.B.I.E. not only enriches the story but also serves as a reminder of the franchise’s growth. The success of The Fantastic Four: First Steps sets the stage for future Marvel films, including upcoming projects like Doomsday and Secret Wars.
The buzz around H.E.R.B.I.E. has fans speculating about potential future developments within the MCU. Will we see more beloved characters from earlier adaptations make a comeback? Only time will tell, but one thing is clear: The Fantastic Four: First Steps has successfully captured the hearts of fans while paving the way for new adventures.
Stay tuned for more updates on this groundbreaking film and the future of the Marvel Cinematic Universe!
