As the Marvel Cinematic Universe prepares to reclaim its position as a pioneering force, fresh talents emerge, accompanied by heightened anticipation. With the MCU embarking on a journey to revive classic comic narratives, Matt Shakman assumes the directorial reins for the highly anticipated The Fantastic Four. This time, amidst the formidable quartet, an actor familiar with the riveting series Ozark steps into the Marvel fray, adding another layer to this iconic tale. 

For those curious about the details–who, what, and why–this piece aims to dispel any lingering uncertainties.

Deadline has recently confirmed that the forthcoming The Fantastic Four directed by Matt Shakman has secured its ideal actor for the role of Silver Surfer. The one to play this role is Gliteratti’s burgeoning sensation, Julia Garner whose role as Ruth Langmore in Netflix’s Ozark won her the Primetime Emmy thrice and a Golden Globe. Reports also suggest that Garner will play Shalla-Bal, a version of Silver Surfer from the original comics. 

For the iconic characters of the super team, Pedro Pascal will play Reed Richards (Mr. Fantastic) while Vanessa Kirby will portray Sue Storm (the Invisible Woman). Along with them, Joseph Quinn will depict Johnny Storm (Human Torch) and Ebon Moss-Bachrach is set to play Ben Grimm (The Thing). While the plotline remains under wraps for now, the production for the film is supposed to begin this summer as the movie is anticipated to hit the theaters on July 25, 2025. 

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Since the MCU is taking their bets on Julia Garner to play this version of Silver Surfar, here is what has been known about the character from the comics.

Shalla-Bal was introduced as the Empress of Zenn-la, a planet created by a time-traveling Norrin Radd or Silver Surfer. The character was a creation by Stan Lee and John Buscema in 1968’s Silver Surfer comic 1. Shalla-Bal is an alien ruler who became the Silver Surfer in the separate realm of the Earth X miniseries. With Norrin, Shalla-Bal became the twin heralds of the second Galactus.

Earlier, Shakman revealed to Collider how the upcoming film would be “certainly unlike anything at Marvel you’ve seen”. Although he did not delve into “specifics”, he did let slip that the fresh project would be “different in so many ways”. The director even confirmed that the filming will take place in Pinewood, London from this year onwards. Hence, now with the confirmed cast and Julia Garner taking on the shoes for the most anticipated portrayal, it looks like the Marvel characters can finally assemble to their glory.

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What do you think of Julia Garner's Marvel Cinemat debut as Silver Surfer in Matt Shakman's The Fantastic Four? Let us know in the comments below!