Los Angeles, CA – March 27, 2025
Ebon Moss-Bachrach, the Emmy-winning star of Hulu’s The Bear, has officially joined the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) as Ben Grimm/The Thing in the highly anticipated Fantastic Four film. The casting, announced by Marvel Studios on February 14, 2024, has generated excitement among fans eager to see Moss-Bachrach take on the beloved superhero role.
Marvel’s ‘Fantastic Four’ and Moss-Bachrach’s Role
Marvel Studios confirmed that Fantastic Four will hit theaters on July 25, 2025, as part of the MCU’s Phase 6. Directed by Matt Shakman (WandaVision), the film will introduce Marvel’s First Family into the MCU for the first time.
Ebon Moss-Bachrach, 46, will portray Ben Grimm, aka The Thing, a former astronaut who transforms into a super-strong, rock-covered hero after being exposed to cosmic radiation. He joins a star-studded cast that includes:
- Pedro Pascal as Reed Richards/Mister Fantastic
- Vanessa Kirby as Sue Storm/Invisible Woman
- Joseph Quinn as Johnny Storm/Human Torch
Moss-Bachrach’s casting has been widely praised, with fans and industry insiders noting his ability to bring depth and nuance to his roles.
Breakout Success with ‘The Bear’
Ebon Moss-Bachrach rose to prominence with his role as Richie Jerimovich in Hulu’s critically acclaimed drama The Bear. The show, which premiered in June 2022, follows a fine-dining chef who takes over his family’s sandwich shop in Chicago.
His performance as Richie, a rough-around-the-edges but loyal friend, earned him the Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series in January 2024. He also won a Critics’ Choice Television Award and received nominations for a Golden Globe and a Screen Actors Guild Award.
Career in Television and Film
Moss-Bachrach’s career spans over two decades, with roles in both film and television. Before The Bear, he was best known for playing David Lieberman/Micro in Netflix’s The Punisher (2017–2019), a skilled hacker who aids Frank Castle (Jon Bernthal).
His other notable TV roles include:
- Arvel Skeen in Andor (2022), a Star Wars series.
- John Quincy Adams in HBO’s John Adams (2008).
- Appearances in Girls (HBO), The Dropout (Hulu), and NOS4A2 (AMC).
On the film side, he has starred in:
- Blow the Man Down (2019) – an Amazon Prime thriller.
- Sharper (2023) – alongside Julianne Moore and Sebastian Stan.
- No Hard Feelings (2023) – a comedy starring Jennifer Lawrence.
Fan Reactions and Expectations
Following the announcement of his MCU casting, Moss-Bachrach trended on social media, with fans praising Marvel’s decision to cast a seasoned character actor in the role. His ability to balance humor and drama makes him a strong fit for Ben Grimm, a character known for his tough exterior and emotional depth.
Industry analysts believe Fantastic Four will be a major box office success, given the popularity of the franchise and the high-profile cast.
What’s Next for Moss-Bachrach?
With The Bear renewed for Season 3, Moss-Bachrach is set to return to the series later in 2025. His schedule will now be split between the hit FX series and his commitments to Marvel Studios.
Filming for Fantastic Four is expected to begin in August 2024, with additional Marvel appearances likely for his character in upcoming Avengers films.
