An alleged Deadpool 3 set photo suggesting that a Fantastic Four cast member was joining the production of the highly anticipated threequel has been entirely dispelled by the star at the center of the swirling speculation.
Deadpool 3 is one of the most anticipated sequels of 2024 and has sparked numerous rumors about potential cameo appearances. An odd rumor suggested that the Fox-era Fantastic Four team from the early 2000s would appear, especially when an image of The Thing actor Michael Chiklis on the set of Deadpool 3 started circulating.
However, Chiklis has set the record straight about returning as The Thing in Deadpool 3. Taking to his official Michael Chiklis X account, the star confirmed that the viral image was a fake, and he had not been cast to reprise the role of The Thing in Deadpool 3. He did, however, hint that he knows who has been cast in his stead, expressing his admiration for the chosen actor and wishing him luck in the role. This debunks the image and suggests that Chiklis knows who Marvel Studios will cast as The Thing for the Fantastic Four MCU reboot.
Despite the potential for a massive MCU shakeup in Deadpool 3, fan casting seems to be reaching extreme levels, as evidenced by the doctored image. Fan reactions varied from gratitude to amusement, with some confidently believing that the post was a misdirection, while others thanked the actor for helping manage their expectations of the film. Additionally, a user in the thread revealed that the debunked photo was a manipulated image based on a behind-the-scenes shot of Colossus interacting with Deadpool from a previous film, providing the original photo for comparison.
Although it would have been intriguing to see Chiklis in a more raucous third outing as the iconic character, given that Deadpool 3 will be R-rated, this is not in the cards for fans. It was unlikely from the start that Marvel Studios and Feige would bring back a full Fox-era Fantastic Four lineup, particularly when the MCU's own Fantastic Four reboot film is already in progress and casting its lead characters. Even if the idea seemed appealing on paper, the executives need not look far for a sign that it may not go well, as Jonh Krasinski's cameo as Mr. Fantastic only fueled speculation and ultimately disappointed fans when it didn't materialize into a full role in the MCU.
Despite this rumor being debunked, speculation surrounding Deadpool 3 persists. The latest glimpse at Wolverine's costume hinted at Jennifer Garner's Elektra, adding to the ongoing anticipation. Fans can continue to speculate, but the final cast of the highly anticipated film will only be revealed at the premiere.
Deadpool 3 is scheduled for theatrical release on July 26, 2024, in the United States.
Source: Michael Chiklis