The upcoming Marvel Cinematic Universe movie The Fantastic Four: First Steps is set to introduce Marvel’s first family to the MCU. Additionally, it will introduce the MCU’s Silver Surfer, specifically the Shalla-Bal version which will be played by Julia Garner. As the female iteration of the character she has received some backlash, however, and now Julia Garner has commented on the matter.
Garner shared her response regarding the backlash when interviewed by the BBC during the film’s red carpet premiere in London. It’s worth mentioning that there are various versions of the Silver Surfer, including Shalla-Bal that Garner will be playing and a male version named Norrin Radd that was previously featured in 2007’s live-action adaptation Fantastic Four: Rise of the Silver Surfer.
Now, as for Garner’s thoughts on the matter, she has a rather professional take on the whole situation:
“Oh, well, you know, I said, ‘I’m just going to still do my job.”
In addition to simply doing her job, however, Garner also acknowledges that her version of the character is supposed to be female and isn’t actually a gender-swapped version of the Silver Surfer:
“Also, it’s Shalla-Bal, so it’s different.”
Ultimately, Garner is quite happy to be involved with the project and the MCU:
“I was just happy that people are resonating with it, just like any other project,” she continued. “I’m grateful to be at this dance, to be completely honest with you.”
It certainly looks like things are looking up for Julia Garner as the backlash turns to support with the upcoming release of the film. At the very least, she seems quite happy with her work and fans will no doubt be interested to see how she brings Shalla-Bal to life on the big screen.
The Fantastic Four: First Steps hits theaters on July 25, 2025. Stay tuned to ScreenGeek for any additional updates regarding the highly-anticipated debut of the Fantastic Four in the Marvel Cinematic Universe – including Julia Garner as the Silver Surfer.