A recent update involving Matt Shakman has sparked concern among fans of The Fantastic Four: First Steps. Following news that the filmmaker is moving to another major franchise project, many are now questioning whether he will return to direct a sequel to Marvel’s Fantastic Four reboot. However, as of now, Marvel Studios has not officially commented on plans for a second film.

Marvel fans are worried Fantastic Four 2 won’t be directed by Matt Shakman

Concerns have started growing among Marvel fans over whether Matt Shakman will return for a sequel to The Fantastic Four: First Steps. 

The discussion began after reports revealed that the filmmaker is attached to direct a new untitled Planet of the Apes project for 20th Century Studios. It has raised questions about his future involvement with Marvel’s Fantastic Four franchise. According to Deadline, Shakman is set to helm the upcoming Planet of the Apes installment. Screenwriter Josh Friedman, who co-wrote The Fantastic Four: First Steps, is also involved in the project. 

The report has sparked mixed reactions online. Some fans are concerned that Shakman could ultimately step away from directing a second Fantastic Four film altogether. However, others believe there is still enough time for the filmmaker to return. This is largely because a sequel is not expected to be released until around 2029 or 2030.

Some fans have also pointed out that Shakman could still direct another Marvel film if the new Planet of the Apes movie is completed on schedule. One user wrote on X (formerly Twitter), “Wonder what this means for a Fantastic Four sequel. I heard Marvel wanted him back and Disney clearly likes him since he’s now signed onto another IP of theirs. So seems like he would still direct the F4 sequel but it’s going to be longer of a wait than expected.”

Another added that a “sequel won’t happen for a couple of years at earliest so there’s time to get Matt Shakman back (and I hope they do!).”

At this stage, Marvel Studios has not officially announced a sequel to The Fantastic Four: First Steps. Additionally, no confirmation has been given on a director for any potential follow-up film.

Originally reported by Disheeta Masheshwari on SuperHeroHype.