After The Fantastic Four: First Steps introduced the character of Franklin Richards in the MCU, theories of him possibly becoming evil in 2026’s Avengers: Doomsday have started surfacing on the internet.
An immensely powerful being, who even managed to draw the attention of the planet-devouring Galactus in First Steps, Franklin’s interaction with a certain someone in the conclusive moments of Matt Shakman’s film has convinced many that he could go rogue in the upcoming Avengers 5.
How Franklin could become a villain in Avengers: Doomsday
Throughout the entirety of The Fantastic Four: First Steps’ runtime, Franklin Richards remains an infant, making it impossible for viewers to draw conclusions about his morality. However, the mid-credits scene, which takes place four years after the events of the film, showcases Reed Richards and Sue Storm’s son communicating with an unmasked Doctor Doom.
Considering that Franklin Richards was able to hide his real powers from his father while still being in the womb, and sees Charles Darwin’s The Origin of Species as one of his favorite books at the age of four, it can be determined that the character possesses unparalleled levels of intellect. As such, Franklin would’ve been cognizant of his interaction with Doctor Doom, causing many to think that he could become evil in Avengers: Doomsday.
The prevalent theory is that Reed and Sue’s son could be helping Doom in correcting the latter’s face, which would allow Robert Downey Jr. to play the character in Avengers 5. In addition, many believe that Victor Von Doom could manipulate Franklin to assist him in his multiversal plan in Avengers: Doomsday. With Franklin possessing the power to create universes in the comics, Downey Jr.’s character could leverage his abilities to give birth to Battleworld, in time for 2027’s Avengers: Secret Wars.
While this theory suggests that Franklin could end up helping Doctor Doom in his nefarious plans, it doesn’t necessarily mean that he will turn evil in Avengers: Doomsday. In the comics as well, the character has not truly embarked on a sinister path. Therefore, while Franklin may aid Doom in his journey, it could be to save his family or due to his belief that his actions are for the greater good.
Originally reported by Apoorv Rastogi on SuperHeroHype.
