‘Fantastic Four’ Star Michael Chiklis Open to Reprising Role of Ben Grimm
Legacy casting has emerged as a hallmark of the Multiverse Saga, with Marvel Studios frequently bringing back actors from pre-MCU films. Notably, Chris Evans returned as a variant of Johnny Storm in ‘Deadpool & Wolverine,’ sparking speculation among fans about which familiar faces might make a comeback. Among those frequently mentioned is Michael Chiklis, known for his portrayal of Ben Grimm.
Chiklis originally played the Thing in 2005’s ‘Fantastic Four’ and its 2007 sequel, ‘Fantastic Four: Rise of the Silver Surfer,’ which collectively grossed nearly $635.5 million worldwide. He was already a well-respected actor, having won an Emmy in 2002 and a Golden Globe in 2003 for his role in ‘The Shield.’ Director Tim Story reportedly viewed him as the top choice for the character.
Recently, Chiklis expressed his enthusiasm for the role once more. In a new Instagram video, he stated he would be eager to reprise his role as Ben Grimm if Marvel Studios reached out, emphasizing his love for the character.
This sentiment isn’t new for Chiklis. In a September 2025 interview, he mentioned that he always considers opportunities, noting that his decision would depend on the project’s execution and the team behind it. He clarified that at this stage in his career, it’s more about desire than necessity.
Chiklis has been careful not to overpromise. In another interview during the promotion of ‘The Senior,’ he told ComicBookMovie.com that fans likely wouldn’t see him in ‘Avengers: Doomsday’ or ‘Avengers: Secret Wars.’ However, he softened his stance, suggesting that he shouldn’t say never, as circumstances can change.
A significant moment occurred at New York Comic Con in October 2025. During a ‘Back to the Baxter Building’ panel with Ioan Gruffudd, both actors expressed their openness to returning for ‘Secret Wars.’ Chiklis received enthusiastic cheers when he invoked the Thing’s iconic catchphrase, signaling his willingness to participate.
The role of Ben Grimm has since transitioned to a new generation, with Ebon Moss-Bachrach taking on the character in ‘The Fantastic Four: First Steps,’ alongside Pedro Pascal, Joseph Quinn, and Vanessa Kirby. Moss-Bachrach is also set to appear in ‘Avengers: Doomsday’ and ‘Avengers: Secret Wars.’ Chiklis has handled this transition gracefully, wishing the new cast well and expressing admiration for those stepping into these legendary roles.
The two actors have even met in person. Chiklis shared a photo of himself with Moss-Bachrach, calling their meeting long overdue. Fans quickly began speculating about a potential crossover in ‘Doomsday’ or ‘Secret Wars,’ although no official plans have been announced.
Chiklis has a deep connection to the character, having grown up reading ‘Fantastic Four’ comics. He once told his brother at age 18 that he would play Ben Grimm if a movie were ever made. When the casting was finalized, he introduced himself to Stan Lee simply as Ben Grimm.
The role was challenging, as the practical suit weighed around 60 pounds and took five hours to put on. Chiklis has mentioned that it became so claustrophobic at times that he nearly quit.
The films received mixed reviews initially, but Chiklis is pleased that more viewers now regard them as family-friendly and enjoyable. This nostalgia is part of why the idea of his return remains so enticing, especially as the MCU embraces its past.
For now, Chiklis’s comments reflect a willingness rather than a formal announcement. He has consistently stated that he’d consider a return under the right circumstances, and Marvel has demonstrated its readiness to bring back beloved characters when the narrative allows. Whether the Thing’s rocky orange skin will make a comeback in the MCU remains to be seen, hinging on decisions made in the Multiverse Saga’s pivotal moments.
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