The Fantastic Four’s First Villain Reaches New Depths, Confirming His Value in the MCU

Warning: Spoilers for Fantastic Four #27

When considering the villains who challenge the Fantastic Four, the Mole Man often gets overlooked. This is surprising, given that enemies like Doctor Doom loom much larger in the minds of fans. However, a recent issue of Fantastic Four, specifically #27, demonstrates that Mole Man’s depravity runs deeper than initially perceived.

In this gripping issue, crafted by Ryan North, Steven Cummings, Jesus Aburtov, and Joe Caramagna, the Fantastic Four face off against the Mad Thinker and his army of Thermo-Droids. Meanwhile, in a sinister twist, Mole Man seizes this distraction to unleash havoc on the children of the heroes in their hometown.

Mole Man targeting the Fantastic Four's kids

While simply battling the Fantastic Four classifies him as a villain, Mole Man’s decision to attack the school—when he knows the heroes are preoccupied—demonstrates a level of malice that heightens his status in Marvel’s hierarchy of villains.

Mole Man: The Most Twisted Enemy in Fantastic Four History

A Classic Villain’s Dark Transformation Ahead of His MCU Debut

Mole Man’s design may appear quirky compared to other formidable Marvel villains, but his latest actions elevate his threat level significantly. Rather than directly confronting the Fantastic Four, he resorts to a truly heinous strategy: targeting their children. This calculated attack on a vulnerable school population highlights a new, darker aspect of Mole Man’s character, revealing just how far he is willing to go in his quest for revenge.

Debuting in the inaugural issue of the Fantastic Four comic series by Stan Lee and Jack Kirby, Mole Man’s character will see a renewed spotlight with a Facsimile Edition release on January 8th, 2025. Traditionally viewed as a harmless oddball, his recent actions bring a shocking dimension to his villainy, compelling readers to reassess his impending role in the MCU. Now, Mole Man stands amongst the ranks of major antagonists, his dark potential rivaling that of Doctor Doom.

Not the Sole Villain Targeting the Fantastic Four’s Offspring

Doctor Doom Utilizes a Similar Strategy Against the Fantastic Four’s Children

Mole Man’s vendetta against the Fantastic Four is longstanding, but he is not alone in his wicked aspirations. Victor Von Doom—better known as Doctor Doom—not only sees the Fantastic Four as adversaries but possesses an enduring grudge, particularly against Reed Richards. Doom’s history with Reed compels him to engage in grotesque acts, such as targeting Reed’s children in his schemes. Like Mole Man, Doom’s machinations also seek to inflict pain through the Fantastic Four’s offspring.

In Fantastic Four #68, penned by Mark Waid and illustrated by Mike Wieringo, Doctor Doom directly threatens the family of Reed Richards and Sue Storm. He initially takes control of Valeria Richards before wreaking havoc in Reed’s lab while targeting Franklin. In a shocking twist, Doom channels his malevolent magic to transport young Franklin to Hell, showcasing the lengths to which he will go to undermine Reed and the rest of the Fantastic Four.

The Fantastic Four’s Heroic Lifestyle Poses Risks to Their Children

Powerful Nemeses Place the Lives of Their Offspring in Jeopardy

The landscape of villainy targeting the Fantastic Four encompasses figures from the cozy warmth of their families to the cold machinery of evil schemes, creating an ever-present threat. As seen with both Mole Man and Doctor Doom, their motivations often involve striking at the heart of what the Fantastic Four hold dear: their children. While some of their kids, like Nicki, may possess powers, the majority remain defenseless, making them potential targets in a world rife with danger.

The Fantastic Four must sharpen their focus on safeguarding their children, or else they may find that Mole Man’s attempts—or the matches of other villainous minds—could lead to catastrophic outcomes. One thing is clear: Fantastic Four #27 has reshaped the narrative surrounding the safety of their children, shedding light on the unique pressures that come with their superhero lifestyles.

Fantastic Four #27 is currently available from Marvel Comics.

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