Denzel Washington has always been a notable actor with several classic roles to his name. Starring in magnum opuses like The Tragedy of Macbeth, Flight, and, Training Day, the actor has also declined several roles throughout his Hollywood career.
Refusing to star in one of the most iconic roles in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, Denzel Washington has been speculated to say no to the role of Galactus as stated by Grace Randolph (via The Direct) in the upcoming Fantastic Four reboot. Although Washington rejected the role, here are 7 other stars who could replace the actor.
1) Johnny Depp
One of the most prominent actors who could portray the role of Galactus in the upcoming Fantastic Four reboot is none other than Johnny Depp. With his chaotic roles as Captain Jack Sparrow combined with depth from Edward Scissorhands, the actor seems to be the perfect choice for the role of Galactus.
And the timing couldn’t have been any better since the actor is not attached to serious projects that require a deep commitment ever since the Depp defamation trial. With the love of the people by his side, Johnny Depp would surely shine in the role of Galactus if given the chance.
2) Javier Bardem
Much like Johnny Depp, Javier Bardem portrayed the role of Captain Salazar in Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Men Tell No Tales. Bardem’s other iconic roles include the Jennifer Lawrence starrer, Mother, and No Country for Old Men.
Portraying a deep and sympathetic role alongside a crazy psychotic villain, Javier Bardem has all the qualities present to take on the role of Galactus in the MCU.
3) Michael Fassbender
If we talk about serious roles, Michael Fassbender seems to be on the higher side on this scale. With his iconic portrayal in Assassin’s Creed, Inglourious Basterds, and, Steve Jobs, Fassbender is an avid lover of serious roles.
The actor would be able to portray the role of Galactus brilliantly in the upcoming Fantastic Four reboot.
4) Riz Ahmed
Riz Ahmed found international and worldwide fame when he portrayed the role of Ruben Stone in the 2019 masterpiece Sound of Metal. Portraying a recovering addict who is borderline violent, Riz Ahmed depicted how a calm person can have an extreme range of emotions. The actor would indeed look good in the role of Galactus if he were to be cast in the Fantastic Four movie.
5) John David Washington
John David Washington is known for portraying the role of Ron Stallworth in the 2018 movie BlackkKlansman and then The Protagonist in Christopher Nolan’s Tenet in 2020. Known for his action roles and serious acting skills, John David Washington would be one of the better choices for portraying the role of Galactus.
6) James McAvoy
James McAvoy is no stranger to evil roles. Depicting seven different personalities in Split and Glass, the actor proved himself countless times over and over with his iconic roles. With an affiliation for serious roles and great stories, James McAvoy would be perfect for the role of Galactus in the Marvel Cinematic Universe.
7) Tom Cruise
Last but not least, Cruise has not been associated with a negative role for a long time. Being a versatile actor, Cruise can portray any role flawlessly. Adding a little star power to the Marvel Cinematic Universe, Tom Cruise would easily shine in the role of Galactus in the MCU and devour planets while fighting the Avengers.
Although nothing can be confirmed or denied yet, all we know is that director Matt Shakman will be making the upcoming Fantastic Four reboot. The film is slated for a release date of 2nd May 2025 in the U.S.
