Mad Mikkelsen vs Cillian Murphy vs Ben Affleck: Who Should Play Dr. Doom in MCU’s ‘The Fantastic Four’?

With the highly anticipated 2025 reboot of The Fantastic Four back on the horizon, the coveted role of Victor Vom Doom now needs a versatile talent to fill in. While no casting calls have been made so far, the MCU must know there is a wide spectrum of A-lists deserving of a chance to bring the iconic villain to life. While Marvel is already in chaos, there seems no harm in roping in some big-screen beloved faces to exploit some of it.

This is where our options step in. Although typical Marvel stars might come easy as in-house solutions, Hollywood is now filled to the brim with actors who could take up the role, for a break.

Cillian Murphy

With Marvel’s multiversal war storyline currently in shambles, only an actor as reliable and symbolic as Cillian Murphy seems to be a brilliant way to fix it. Although the star has never been inclined toward the MCU, famous fan theories have envisioned the Oscar winner as the titular antagonist, Doctor Doom in Marvel’s upcoming flicks. Moreover, upon introspection, one can know why Murphy is a perfect alternative for Doctor Doom. 

As described by Kirby, Doom’s best-fitting psych is paranoia. Despite being one of the most forbidding villains of the MCU, he is respected, along with his flaws that makes him a perfectionist in himself. And what could be a better real-life portrayal of the same as Murphy’s conflicted character in Oppenheimer that led him to the ultimate doom? While Giancarlo Esposito is now a part of MCU and can be a contender for the role, Murphy’s mental headspace makes him an inspiring choice for the same.

Ben Affleck

Next in line comes another titular DC veteran that fans have rallied behind for years. Ben Affleck, famous for his acrobatic prowess and hand-to-hand combat dominance, as Batman, has showcased his ability to play physically demanding characters. With his commanding presence, he could bring a sense of intellectual intensity to the role of Doctor Doom, perfectly capturing the character’s arrogance and megalomania.

Additionally, Affleck’s experience in playing characters with a dark past could help him tap into Doctor Doom’s troubled history, adding a layer of humanity to the iconic villain. What does seem like a bold choice, could actually pay off in a big way, if manifested. 

Mads Mikkelsen

It is fair to say that Mads Mikkelsen as Doctor Doom would make the perfect sense of all. Having already proven his villainous chops as Le Chiffre in Casino Royale and Hannibal Lecter in the hit TV series Hannibal, Mikkelsen’s option is a casting coup that has got everyone in Tinseltown talking. 

Following his iconic turn as Kaecilius in Doctor Strange, with his chiseled features, piercing gaze, and undeniable charm, Mikkelsen is the total package when it comes to playing a compelling baddie. The level of sophistication and menace that he could bring to Victor Von Doom does not need a second thought. 

As of now, the likes of all three along with Michael Fassbender, Javier Bardem, and Tom Hiddleston have all been rumored to be in the running, for the sought-after role. As the casting process heats up, it is to see which superstar will ultimately land the role and make it his own.

Who do you think would fit in the best of all three?