4 Best Members of the Fantastic Four (Who Aren’t the Core Four)

by

The Fantastic Four are one of Marvel’s most prominent groups, and unlike other teams such as the Avengers and X-Men, they are primarily recognized for being consistently staffed by the same characters. While other superhero teams often rotate their members, the Fantastic Four maintain a stable lineup. However, even a close-knit group like the Fantastic Four occasionally experiences changes, usually due to one or more of its members going absent or getting stranded in another dimension for a while. Here, we’ll examine four standout members of the Fantastic Four, excluding Marvel’s First Family.

In this version, I have attempted to maintain the original meaning and style while using simpler sentence structures and varying vocabulary choices.

1) Ant-Man

In the Marvel comics, Scott Lang, presently known as Ant-Man, formed bonds with the Fantastic Four when he teamed up with the Thing in Marvel Two-In-One #87. He even temporarily joined them when Mr. Fantastic disappeared. However, due to the decay of cosmic radiation that transformed the Fantastic Four, they were compelled to travel to another universe to repair it. Each member picked a hero to stand in for them during their absence since the expected four-minute gap often extends, as depicted in volume two of FF. Mr. Fantastic selected Ant-Man to oversee his substitute Fantastic Four and Future Foundation. Following the loss of his daughter, Scott utilized this pain to foster growth, both personally and as a hero. Eventually, he not only defeated Doctor Doom but led a flawless victory that ensured no casualties, embarrassing Latveria’s dictator severely while giving him one of his most humiliating beatings yet and since. Ant-Man demonstrated unequivocally the brilliance of his heroism and the reasons for his leadership selection within this new team.

2) She-Hulk

Jen Walters, in essence, holds a rich and significant past with the Fantastic Four, officially joining their ranks as a permanent member in Fantastic Four #265, following The Thing’s departure from the team. She stood firm alongside them for multiple years, serving not only as their physical strength but also their trusted legal advisor. Jen-Hulk developed a profound bond with the team that few other additional or temporary members managed to achieve, forming friendships and familial connections. Her vibrant character harmoniously complements Johnny’s quick humor, bringing out the best in both Reed and Sue. She provided support within the team and is often one of the first called when the Four require assistance or someone they can rely on. Jen-Hulk’s history with the Fantastic Four is so deeply ingrained that she features in all their animated adaptations, and this serves as a testament to her strong ties with them. Many view Jen as an unofficial fifth member, a perspective I share and would eagerly welcome seeing her reunite with the FF for future escapades.

3) Spider-Man

As a die-hard comic fan, I’ve always held a special place in my heart for the bond between Spider-Man and the Fantastic Four. It all started when Peter Parker attempted to join their ranks in his very first solo issue, only to step back when he discovered they functioned as a nonprofit organization. Despite this initial hiccup, Spidey has remained a steadfast ally to the Four, developing an unbreakable friendship with Johnny Storm, despite our rocky beginning.

Peter was also instrumental in helping Franklin Richard cope with the guilt he felt over his uncle’s death, a feeling Peter himself is intimately familiar with. After Johnny’s tragic demise in Fantastic Four #587, his final wish was for Spider-Man to take his place on the team – a role that Peter willingly accepted.

When it was believed the entire team had perished, I became a temporary member alongside Black Panther, Hulk, and Ghost Rider, understanding the world’s need for the Fantastic Four. Few are trusted more by the Four than me, and I am always ready to leap into action when they require assistance. With my blend of scientific brilliance and humor, I fit seamlessly with Reed Richards and the less serious members of the team. My dynamic with them is truly perfect.

4) Crystal

Crystal, the sibling of Inhuman queen Medusa, made her debut in Fantastic Four #45 and was Johnny Storm’s primary romantic interest for a considerable period. When Sue Storm became pregnant with Franklin, Crystal temporarily filled in on the team until the Invisible Woman was ready to take on the perilous missions of the Four again. Initially underestimated by the team, Crystal more than demonstrated her abilities, single-handedly defeating their longtime adversary the Wizard in Fantastic Four #81 and remaining a member even after Sue returned to combat readiness. However, she had to leave the team when Earth’s pollution began affecting her health. Over the years, her relationship with the Four has become strained, but for an extended period, she was one of their most dependable and capable allies. Despite her sister Medusa having joined the team multiple times, Crystal is undeniably among the greatest members, earning recognition for her significant contributions to the team.

https://comicbook.com/comics/news/best-marvel-comics-after-fantastic-four-first-steps/embed/#

Read More

2025-08-06 21:18