One of Marvel’s most beloved superhero teams is about to grace our screens as they are imminently going to be introduced in the Marvel Cinematic Universe – the Fantastic Four! While Mr Fantastic and Invisible Women have been the popular characters that have been heavily theorised and have passionate fancasts. Let’s not forget one of the iconic members in the Human Torch, known for his charismatic personality and fiery superpowers. In this article, I will explore the best options for an actor to be cast in the role and discuss the qualities these actors can bring to the character. From rising stars to established talents, there is no shortage of options at Marvel’s disposal.
Our top fancasts for the MCU version of Human Torch/Johnny Storm:
#1: Glen Powell
Top Gun: Maverick put Glen Powell on the map! I instantly knew he would be the best pick to be Johnny Storm. Powell played Hangman in Top Gun: Maverick which was a character closely aligned to Storm – charismatic, boisterous, egotistical and sincere. As far as appearances go, he looks the part but he can bring charm and heart to this character.
#2: Dacre Montgomery
His most iconic role really is a supportive role in Stranger Things as Billy Hargrove. That role does not provide much insight into how he could really play Johnny Storm as they are polar opposites. Montgomery can lean into the impulsive nature of Storm and bring an interesting variant of intensity to that character to make it compelling. He is a rising star in the making – the MCU may just be the right place for his talents.
#3: Zac Efron
Efron feels like an easy pick to play Human Torch but that really shouldn’t factor in too much, right? Efron is a proven actor, bringing bravado and confidence to his roles – similar to Neighbors, 17 Again and Baywatch. Alongside this, Efron can bring a strong sense of physicality to the role and with piercing blue eyes, he would be a striking presence on screen.
#4: Ross Butler
Starring in multiple teenage roles from 13 Reasons Why to Riverdale to Shazam! Ross Butler has quickly emerged as an intriguing pick as the Human Torch. Johnny Storm has a tough exterior and a keen sense of confidence despite dealing with inner turmoil and emotional vulnerabilities. Ross Butler feels like an actor that could play into that complexity of the character. Another note, he has natural chemistry with co-stars making him a safe option to fit within the Fantastic Four family.
#5: Joe Keery
Another Stranger Things actor! Keery plays Steve Harrington in the Netflix hit series and has become a fan favourite character due to Keery’s ability to add depth to his characters while performing with a nice balance of heart and humour. He may not have the same physicality as some of our other picks but he arguably brings more charm and wit to his characters – an essential ingredient in the Johnny Storm character.
#6: LaKeith Stanfield
Now here is an interesting pick and it may be the most difficult to translate but with that notion, it could also be the most exciting. There is zero doubt that Stanfield is a talented actor as he is building up a diverse and prolific resume already at a young age. He has played comedic characters and other characters that have emotional depth to them. With Stanfields talents, he could provide a layered and complex interpretation of Johnny Storm but is the MCU ready for that?
It remains to be seen who will be playing Human Torch but there are clearly many talents that can take the mantle. Each actor can add something unique to the character and provide a reason to get excited to see their portrayal. I hope the fancasts provided have broadened your appeal for the character and the potential actors that can portray them.
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