Marvel Studios’ First Phase 6 Villain Will Be ‘Essentially a God’ (Confirmed)

by

The initial main adversary in Phase 6 of the MCU is hinted at as being something akin to a deity before officially appearing for Marvel Studios. The final phase of the MCU’s Multiverse Saga promises an abundance of formidable antagonists, marking some of the most powerful foes the franchise has ever seen. As the boundaries between realms start to crumble, one character will tower above the rest and is not far from leaving a significant mark on the storyline.

As a devoted fan, I can confidently affirm that Matt Shakman, the director of “The Fantastic Four: First Steps,” paints Galactus as a formidable deity-like adversary within the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU). It’s important to note that The Fantastic Four will encounter multiple antagonists, but none are expected to match the might and power exhibited by Ralph Ineson’s portrayal of Galactus. This impression is further heightened by the rich lore attached to his first appearance in the MCU.

In conversation with D23, Shakman elucidated that Galactus is approximately 14 billion years old and virtually indestructible. He mused aloud about who could challenge such a formidable force. Essentially, Shakman portrayed the eagerly awaited antagonist as akin to a deity while also referring to it as a “cosmic predator.

He’s almost like a deity. He’s 14 billion years old and enormous in size, with an impressive set of powers that make him almost invincible. Not only does he have the ability to consume planets, but he’s also akin to a space vampire. So, how do you challenge something as massive as a mountain? How can you defeat something so powerful?

In the upcoming film, The Fantastic Four, Galactus is set as the primary antagonist, known for devouring any planet or world that crosses his path. Recently released previews hint at his ambitious goal of acquiring Reed Richards and Sue Storm’s child, Franklin Richards. However, there remains uncertainty regarding his intentions for the incredibly potent toddler.

The Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) is all set to launch Phase 6 with “The Fantastic Four: First Steps” on July 25, Friday. This phase consists of at least three more confirmed movies and four series on Disney+, leading up to the epic two-part event, “Avengers: Doomsday” and “Avengers: Secret Wars,” scheduled for 2026 and 2027 respectively in theaters. Additionally, six villains are being crafted for both the big screen and smaller screen in Phase 6 and beyond.

Every Confirmed Villain in MCU’s Phase 6 & Beyond

Doctor Doom – Doomsday

The upcoming Avengers film in the MCU, titled “Avengers: Doomsday” (2026), will see Robert Downey Jr.’s return to the universe as Doctor Victor Von Doom – a formidable and legendary villain from Marvel’s storied past. This will mark Downey’s first appearance within the MCU since 2019, following his impressive tenure portraying Tony Stark/Iron Man across almost a dozen movies that shaped the Infinity Saga.

Although specifics about Doomsday’s plot remain secret, it’s clear that Downey’s portrayal of Doom promises to be a fearsome manifestation of nature, showcasing his exceptional intelligence and vengeful streak against numerous Marvel Cinematic Universe heavyweights. Speculation abounds among fans regarding which hero will ultimately defeat Doom, but for the moment, viewers are eagerly awaiting further insights into his schemes and methods.

Grim Reaper – Wonder Man

It’s been speculated that Demetrius Grosse from “Fear the Walking Dead,” who is also known as Eric Williams, might be joining the Marvel Cinematic Universe in December 2025’s “Wonder Man” series, taking on the role of the antagonist Grim Reaper. In this upcoming show, his character will be introduced as Simon Williams’ brother and longtime adversary, providing the main character with a familial nemesis.

Instead of being born with otherworldly powers, Marvel’s Grim Reaper is characterized by possessing a technologically advanced scythe as a replacement for one hand, which he wields effectively in battle. As for Simon Williams, aka Wonder Man, as he navigates his journey through the MCU’s interpretation of Tinseltown, details about his eventual reunion with his brother and their anticipated emotionally charged duel remain scarce.

Ultron – Vision Quest

For the first time in more than ten years, James Spader’s character Ultron is returning to the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) for an antagonistic role in the forthcoming “Vision Quest” series. This marks Spader’s reprisal of the robotic villain since 2015’s “Avengers: Age of Ultron.” During that time, he will interact with Paul Bettany’s character, Vision, who was brought to life by him years ago.

In human form, it is anticipated that Ultron will be a significant part of White Vision’s quest to uncover his identity and true mission, following the occurrences in 2021’s WandaVision. Ultron is likely to pose a considerable challenge for the main character, possibly stirring up painful memories as he seeks to eliminate his former upgrade permanently.

Apocalypse – X-Men ’97 Season 2

For the very first time under Marvel Studios’ supervision, one of the most potent villains from the X-Men lore, Apocalypse, is set to appear on television screens for the first time in X-Men ’97 Season 2. Known as the first mutant ever, Apocalypse will be portrayed in his original En Sabah Nur form, a version we caught a glimpse of at the end of Season 1 when Magneto, Xavier, and their companions were transported back to Ancient Egypt.

In Season 2, it remains unclear what exactly Apocalypse’s storyline will entail, but he is anticipated to take on a significant role when he reappears within the animated X-Men world. As the X-Men in his timeframe strive to locate their path home, Apocalypse, also known as En Sabah Nur, will undoubtedly present obstacles for them, leading to fresh chaos that the universe’s mutants must confront.

Magneto – Doomsday/X-Men Movie (rumored)

In the forthcoming years, Erik Lehnsherr, more famously recognized as Magneto, will have his moment in the spotlight for Marvel Studios. This journey begins with the 2026 film, “Avengers: Doomsday,” where Sir Ian McKellen will reprise his role from the X-Men series by Fox. It is anticipated that this portrayal of Magneto will extend into Marvel Studio’s first X-Men movie as well.

Moving ahead, the primary concern is when Magneto will fully embrace his villainous role; it’s anticipated that he will clash with Doctor Doom in the movie Doomsday. As for his X-Men history, fans only know that he is speculated to be a significant character. However, it’s inevitable that this omega-level mutant will release his full wrath, causing alarm in the MCU when that moment arrives.

Mr. Sinister – X-Men Movie (rumored)

Before the debut of Marvel Cinematic Universe’s initial X-Men film, whispers hint that Mr. Sinister might serve as the primary adversary, confronting a well-established group of mutants under the supervision of Marvel Studios. Originally called Dr. Nathaniel Essex, Mr. Sinister is known for his interest in mutations and human evolution, which eventually drives him towards villainy, fully adopting a malevolent persona and targeting the X-Men.

After playing the main antagonist in “X-Men ’97” Season 1, there’s no information available about how Mr. Sinister will transition into live-action for the MCU’s X-Men film. Given that this version is anticipated to be the most comics-true adaptation of the team, it’s certain that Mr. Sinister will make a powerful impact when he joins the storyline.

Read More

2025-07-23 09:07