Zac Efron has a lot of support from fans who want to see him as the next live-action Human Torch. After the foursome's previous big screen outings, the Fantastic Four is set to be rebooted again with the team's introduction in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. A new reboot means new cast members will be brought in to play each member of the team, and there has been a lot of fantasy casting that's been discussed ahead of Marvel doing any official reveals.
Recently, Efron made it clear that he's ready to join the MCU. Speaking with Extra TV, the Firestarter star was asked about when he might be joining the superhero world, as this is something fans have wanted to see for a long time. He said that he's personally a big Marvel fan and would "jump at the opportunity" to become a part of the MCU. As Efron explains:
"Gosh, you know what, I love the Marvel universe. I've been a fan of Marvel since I started walking. So, if the right character comes along, and they want me to jump in, I would jump at the opportunity... We'll manifest it."
In recent years, there have been some fan campaigns for Efron to play Johnny Storm, aka the Human Torch, in the MCU. There has even been fan art drawn up of the actor in that role, and it has further helped to convince others that it would be great casting. With Efron talking about joining the MCU, Johnny Storm has been trending online with many fans rooting for this fantasy casting once again.
Who Will Play the Fantastic Four in the MCU?
Until Marvel makes some official announcements, fans will continue to speculate who might be playing the characters in the Fantastic Four reboot. For now, the cast remains a mystery as Marvel Studios must first find a new director for the planned film. Just recently, Spider-Man: No Way Home helmer Jon Watts announced he was no longer directing the film. This was an amicable decision, as he is expected to direct more Spider-Man movies in the future, but the search is now on for a replacement.
“Making three Spider-Man films was an incredible and life-changing experience for me," Watts said in a statement. "I’m eternally grateful to have been a part of the Marvel Cinematic Universe for seven years. I’m hopeful we’ll work together again and I can’t wait to see the amazing vision for Fantastic Four brought to life.”
Marvel head Kevin Feige added, "Collaborating with Jon on the Spider-Man films has been a true pleasure. We were looking forward to continuing our work with him to bring the Fantastic Four into the MCU but understand and are supportive of his reasons for stepping away. We are optimistic that we will have the opportunity to work together again at some point down the road.”
An official release date hasn't been announced for Fantastic Four, but it could arrive in late 2023. It is expected to be the final installment of the MCU's Phase Four.