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The anticipation surrounding Marvel’s casting choice for Galactus, the formidable World-Devourer, in “The Fantastic Four” had reached a fever pitch, with speculations running wild about potential contenders. While big names like Antonio Banderas and Javier Bardem circulated in the rumor mill, the actual selection came as a surprise to many: English actor Ralph Ineson has landed the role in Marvel’s highly anticipated summer 2025 blockbuster.
Ineson, known for his extensive resume spanning iconic franchises like “Harry Potter,” “Game of Thrones,” and “The Office,” may not boast the same level of recognition as some of his co-stars. However, it’s not just his relative anonymity that sets him apart as an unexpected choice for such a pivotal villainous role in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU).
What truly raises eyebrows is the fact that Ineson recently filed a lawsuit against Disney, the powerhouse behind Marvel Studios. His legal action stemmed from an on-set injury sustained during his involvement in “Willow,” a sequel series to the beloved Lucasfilm fantasy film. In the lawsuit, Ineson claimed £150,000 (approximately $190,500) in damages, citing permanent shoulder damage incurred during a night shoot in South Wales in July 2021.
The incident occurred as Ineson, portraying Commander Ballantine, filmed an action scene opposite Joonas Suatomo’s character, The Scourge. Alleging negligence on the part of the producers, Ineson asserted that rushed filming and inadequate safety measures led to his fall and subsequent shoulder injury, impacting his ability to undertake physically demanding roles.
While Disney remained publicly silent on the matter, the resolution likely involved a financial settlement. Despite the setback, Ineson’s casting as Galactus underscores Marvel’s confidence in his abilities, positioning him as a significant player in the MCU’s future endeavors.
As “The Fantastic Four” prepares to make its theatrical debut on July 25, 2025, the stage is set for Ineson to devour the competition and make his mark as one of Marvel’s most formidable antagonists to date.