Why Fantastic Four: First Steps Is Dedicated to Jamie Christopher

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In the premiere of “The Fantastic Four: First Steps,” a nod was given to three esteemed figures from both Marvel Studios and director Matt Shakman himself. With this, Phase 6 of the Marvel Cinematic Universe has officially begun, taking viewers on an exciting journey through a futuristic yet ’60s-inspired alternate reality. Witness the Fantastic Four clash with Galactus, the cosmic devourer, and his herald, Shalla-Bal’s Silver Surfer. “First Steps” serves as a captivating introduction for the Fantastic Four within the MCU, given its attention to detail in reflecting their comic book origins. SPOILER ALERT: This article reveals significant plot points from The Fantastic Four: First Steps.

Towards the conclusion of “The Fantastic Four: First Steps”, Invisible Woman (played by Vanessa Kirby) and Shalla-Bal (Julia Garner) skillfully sent Galactus (Ralph Ineson) through a teleportation gate, while Mister Fantastic (Pedro Pascal) rescued Franklin. Using the Power Cosmic, Franklin brought his mother back to life. This epic fight set the stage for exciting end-credit scenes, which also paid homage to three notable figures: Jamie Christopher, Jack Kirby, and Inez Shakman. These individuals hold a significant role in Marvel’s history, as well as that of the Fantastic Four and “First Steps” production team.

Who Is Jamie Christopher?

The dedication for the film “The Fantastic Four: First Steps” goes to Jamie Christopher. A British assistant director and film producer, Christopher began his career as a third-AD on “Alien 3” in 1992. Over the subsequent three decades, he served primarily as a first or second-AD on all eight Harry Potter films, Star Wars: The Last Jedi, Resident Evil: Retribution, but also has an extensive background with Marvel Studios. He was involved in Thor: The Dark World, Guardians of the Galaxy, Avengers: Age of Ultron, Black Widow, Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness, Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania, and The Fantastic Four: First Steps.

On August 29, 2023, it is with deep regret that we announce the untimely demise of Jamie Christopher, who succumbed to heart-related issues while working as a producer on Marvel Studios’ The Fantastic Four: First Steps. Expressing their sorrow, Kevin Feige, in a statement released shortly thereafter, said, “We are devastated by Jamie’s passing. He had been an integral part of the Marvel Studios team for over a decade. On set, he was a tranquil figure behind the camera and a supportive, valued crew member. Jamie was cherished within our Marvel Studios family, and his absence will be deeply felt.” In recognition of Jamie Christopher’s commitment and zeal, it was decided that First Steps should honor his memory.

Fantastic Four’s Other Dedications Explained

In addition to Jamie Christopher, the movie The Fantastic Four: First Steps had multiple dedications. Specifically, director Matt Shakman also dedicated this film – his second project within the Marvel Cinematic Universe following WandaVision from 2021 – to his late mother, Inez Shakman, who passed away at 80 on April 3, 2025, just three months prior to First Steps’ release. It was a source of great pride and solace for Matt Shakman to honor his mother in this way by dedicating his Marvel Cinematic Universe debut feature film to her. Furthermore, First Steps made a heartfelt tribute to a Marvel Comics legend and co-creator of the Fantastic Four, Jack Kirby, who originated the characters in 1961.

As a fellow film enthusiast and comic book lover, I can’t help but see a piece of myself in every character I create. No matter what persona I bring to life on paper or screen, there will always be a trace of my essence woven into its very core. This sentiment, beautifully expressed by the legendary Jack Kirby, echoes through the pages of The Fantastic Four: First Steps, where you’ll find traces of not only Kirby but also his co-creator Stan Lee in this vibrant reimagining of the iconic superhero team.

In honor of Kirby’s birthday on August 28, 1917, we’ve designated the alternate reality presented in First Steps as Earth 828 – a heartfelt tribute to the extraordinary artist who breathed life into timeless Marvel Comics characters such as Captain America, Ant-Man, the Avengers, the Silver Surfer, the X-Men, and countless others.

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2025-07-25 13:40