The Fantastic Four, one of Marvel’s iconic superhero teams, have experienced numerous changes in their lineup throughout the years. Due to various circumstances such as personal commitments, injuries, and even bizarre events, several individuals have temporarily donned the title of a Fantastic Four member. As a result, some of these temporary heroes may not be as prominent in the collective memory of fans and audiences. This article dives into some of the lesser-known, transient members of The Fantastic Four, highlighting their unique stories and contributions to the team.
Sharon Ventura: The She-Thing
First Appearance in Fantastic Four Vol 1 #309
Sharon Ventura’s journey into the Fantastic Four began when she met Ben Grimm, aka The Thing, while part of the Thunderiders motorcycle stunt team. Their connection deepened during their time in the Unlimited Class Wrestling Federation, where Ben successfully rescued her from a dangerous situation. With Reed Richards and Sue Storm stepping back to focus on their son, Franklin, Sharon joined the Fantastic Four.
While participating in a mission, she encountered cosmic rays during a shuttle crash, which transformed her into She-Thing, resembling Ben Grimm’s iconic form. This transformation led her to initially ally with one of the team’s formidable foes, Doctor Doom, where she acted as a spy against her former teammates.
Dennis Sykes: The Matter Manipulator
Brought Into the Fold in Heroic Age: One Month To Live #3
Dennis Sykes’ backstory intertwines with The Fantastic Four from his arrival, chronicled in the Heroic Age: One Month To Live. After a near-fatal incident involving criminals and toxic waste, he was rescued by The Thing. Upon learning about his terminal illness, he discovered his newfound power of matter manipulation, which he would later apply during an essential mission with The Fantastic Four.
When a cosmic being called Ego threatened to devour planets, The Fantastic Four welcomed Dennis into their ranks, leveraging his unique abilities to avert disaster.
Iceman: The Ice-Bound Ally
Reference in Fantastic Four Vol 6 #3
Iceman’s connection with The Fantastic Four remains shrouded in mystery, leaving fans uncertain about his exact joining date. While he may have teamed up with the Fantastic Four in alternate realities, hints suggest he has actively participated in the 616 universe as well. In a surprising revelation in Fantastic Four Vol 6 #3, Mr. Fantastic calls upon every member, including Iceman, sparking a humorous reaction from Johnny Storm, who questions his presence. Iceman clarifies that he had been a member during an unpublished mission, a point that frustrates Johnny.
Sleepwalker: The Dream Warrior
Joined in Spider-Man Vol 1 #22
Sleepwalker stepped into action when The Fantastic Four were captured by the Skrulls. De’Lila, a deceptive Skrull, substituted herself for Sue Storm and recruited a new group—composed of Wolverine, Spider-Man, Hulk, and Ghost Rider—on a misguided mission. Eventually, the New Fantastic Four would regroup with Sleepwalker, who fought valiantly against the notorious Sinister Six. However, due to complications with his human host, Sleepwalker’s time with the team was short-lived.
Moon Girl and Devil Dinosaur: The Young Innovators
Joined in Moon Girl And Devil Dinosaur #29
The brilliant young genius known as Moon Girl, alongside her companion Devil Dinosaur, captivated The Fantastic Four when she boldly claimed superiority over Reed Richards’ intellect. Following the events of Secret Wars, with two of the core members missing, Johnny Storm and Ben Grimm seized the opportunity to recruit Lunella as a new leader. Moon Girl proved herself worthy, joining the team in their battle against the Super Skrull.
Scott Lang: The Ant-Man
Debuted in Fantastic Four Vol 1 #384
Scott Lang’s first interaction with the team was while battling alongside The Thing in a microworld. After Reed Richard’s apparent demise, Scott took on the dual role of a technical advisor and active team member under Sue Storm’s leadership. Although Reed was eventually found alive, Scott’s contributions continued as he rejoined the Fantastic Four as part of the Future Foundation, helping lead a new lineup.
Darla Deering: The Pop Star Hero
Joined in Fantastic Four Vol 4 #2
Pop star Darla Deering, also known as Miss Thing, became a member somewhat unexpectedly through her relationship with Johnny Storm. When the Fantastic Four suffered an unknown setback, Johnny hastily selected Darla as his replacement. This decision led to her temporary oversight of the Future Foundation alongside other heroes like Ant-Man and She-Hulk. In this role, she donned a Thing exoskeleton complete with a force field helmet designed by Invisible Woman.
Namorita: The Atlantean Ally
Joined in Fantastic Four Vol 3 #43
Namorita, cousin to the legendary Namor, entered the Fantastic Four’s narrative through her romantic involvement with Johnny Storm, becoming a noteworthy yet lesser-known ally. Following a team assembly to rescue the original members trapped in the Negative Zone, she played a critical role in the mission with Ant-Man and She-Hulk, eventually continuing to support the team until her relationship with Johnny concluded.
Crystal: The Royal Elementalist
Joined in Fantastic Four Vol 1 #81
As an Inhuman with royal ties, Crystal first met The Fantastic Four while searching for her sister Medusa. Her connection to the team intensified through her relationship with Johnny Storm. She officially joined the group during Sue’s maternity leave, proving to be an invaluable asset by defeating formidable foes, although the Earth’s atmosphere eventually compelled her to return to Attilan.
HERBIE: The Mechanical Replacement
Introduced in 1978’s The New Fantastic Four Animated Series
HERBIE, the Humanoid Experimental Robot, was introduced as a unique replacement for the Human Torch in the 1970s animated series due to licensing issues. Stan Lee himself championed HERBIE’s creation, leading to his eventual introduction into the comics for continuity. Although he may not always be remembered, HERBIE’s legacy continues, with a planned comeback in the upcoming MCU film, The Fantastic Four: First Steps in 2025.
These remarkable, albeit sometimes obscure, characters illustrate the rich and varied history of The Fantastic Four. By acknowledging their contributions and stories, fans can gain a broader understanding of what these heroes represent in the ever-expanding Marvel Universe.
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