The Fantastic Four are set to embark on their inaugural journey into the Marvel Cinematic Universe. With Matt Shankman, known for his work on WandaVision, at the helm, fans are eager for a more successful iteration than the franchise’s past cinematic attempts. Scheduled for a 2025 release, The Fantastic Four: First Steps will not only introduce the iconic heroes but will also invite numerous well-known characters into the MCU.
Featured prominently in the film are Pedro Pascal, Vanessa Kirby, Joseph Quinn, and Ebon Moss-Bachrach, who will portray members of The Fantastic Four. The remarkable ensemble cast will further include significant characters such as the Silver Surfer, Galactus, and the highly anticipated return of Robert Downey Jr. as Doctor Doom. Additionally, familiar faces like Mole Man and H.E.R.B.I.E., a beloved ally of The Fantastic Four, are expected to make appearances. Given H.E.R.B.I.E.’s colorful comic background, fans speculate that Shankman might incorporate a classic MCU twist regarding the character.
Who Is The Fantastic Four’s H.E.R.B.I.E.?
H.E.R.B.I.E. was first introduced in a 1978 episode of The New Fantastic Four animated series, which stands for Humanoid Experimental Robot, B-Type, Integrated Electronics. This robotic companion took the place of the Human Torch, who had been slated for a solo film that ultimately did not come to fruition. Due to his popularity, H.E.R.B.I.E. was subsequently incorporated into the comics in the 1979 issue of Fantastic Four #209.
Created by Mr. Fantastic and the lesser-known Master Xar, H.E.R.B.I.E. was designed to assist in locating Galactus and combating a foe named the Sphinx. Throughout the years, various iterations of H.E.R.B.I.E. have appeared, including H.U.B.E.R.T., who served as a babysitter for Franklin Richards, and S.H.E.R.B.I.E., a recruit within S.H.I.E.L.D. While no casting details for H.E.R.B.I.E. in First Steps have been confirmed, fans are vocal about their preference against Ricky Gervais being cast in the role.
The initial promotional artwork for The Fantastic Four: First Steps features H.E.R.B.I.E. alongside the central characters, sparking speculation regarding his involvement in the plot. This was further hinted by The Direct, which showcased a sneak peek of H.E.R.B.I.E. in a new Marvel Studios logo at New York Comic-Con. The enthusiasm surrounding the character grows, especially since this will mark H.E.R.B.I.E.’s first appearance in live-action, following his exclusion from the 2005 film directed by Tim Story. Intriguingly, his character could even have villainous potential.
Could The Fantastic Four’s H.E.R.B.I.E. Be a Secret Villain?
A caution against trusting technology: H.E.R.B.I.E. has had two notable villain arcs in the comics. When Reed Richards and Master Xar originally constructed the little robot, they were unaware that the entity known as Doctor Sun had transferred his consciousness into H.E.R.B.I.E.’s system. Following the elimination of an alien pirate and aiding Blastaar in his escape from the Negative Zone, Doctor Sun revealed himself and took control of the Baxter Building’s main computer. Ultimately, a redeemed H.E.R.B.I.E. couldn’t bear the weight of his actions and redeemed himself by sacrificing his existence to defeat Doctor Sun.
While this plot may seem too intricate for a film that must also establish the main characters and their origins, the inclusion of Ralph Ineson’s Galactus and hints at the debut of Franklin Richards might set the stage for H.E.R.B.I.E.’s true role. In the 2018 comic storyline, Moon Girl and Devil Dinosaur, H.E.R.B.I.E. was handed over to Moon Girl following the disappearance of Reed Richards and Sue Storm during Secret Wars. Strikingly, he activated himself when Galactus made an appearance.
In an unexpected twist, H.E.R.B.I.E. disclosed that he had not just been on a mission to locate Galactus, but was a sleeper agent for the Devourer of Worlds, supplying him with vital intelligence all along. The potential to have H.E.R.B.I.E., initially portrayed as a delightful sidekick reminiscent of Guardians of the Galaxy’s Baby Groot, turn against the heroes and guide Galactus to the Fantastic Four, could become one of Marvel’s most remarkable surprises.
What Role Will H.E.R.B.I.E. Play In The Upcoming Movie?
Natasha Lyonne has been cast for an undisclosed role in The Fantastic Four: First Steps, with many fans speculating that she could portray H.E.R.B.I.E. In the comics, there’s a memorable incident where H.E.R.B.I.E. disables his inhibitor chip and unexpectedly rants against Reed and Sue. Given Lyonne’s past performances, she would excel in delivering a similar comedic tirade. Regardless of who ultimately takes on the role, Disney is poised to capitalize on merchandise opportunities once H.E.R.B.I.E. is marketed.
Amid the busy narrative of The Fantastic Four: First Steps, it is unlikely H.E.R.B.I.E. will play a prominent role. Yet, there’s potential for his character to pave the way for future MCU plots. Given today’s technological landscape, the idea of a witty sentient robot fits seamlessly, especially amidst the rise of AI like Elon Musk’s Tesla Optimus and ChatGPT. More recently, H.E.R.B.I.E. joined the ranks of the A.I. Army alongside characters such as Awesome Android and Nick Fury’s LMD. He could also easily be integrated into stories revolving around characters like Riri Williams (Dominique Thorne) or Don Cheadle’s Armor Wars, should that project come to fruition.
The MCU has repeatedly demonstrated its adeptness at crafting comedic supporting characters. Even as The Fantastic Four: First Steps unfolds as a standalone film, selecting the right actor for H.E.R.B.I.E. could establish him as a beloved figure in the larger franchise. Whether the writers will adapt the comics to depict H.E.R.B.I.E. as a covert weapon for Galactus within The Fantastic Four remains uncertain, but for now, he is destined to be part of the family.
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