HERBIE Live Action Debut in The Fantastic Four: First Steps, Get to Know This Iconic Robot!
Marvel has just released the first trailer for The Fantastic Four: First Steps on Tuesday (February 4, 2025), and it has instantly grabbed attention! Ever since Marvel acquired the rights to these characters from 20th Century Fox, fans have eagerly awaited this reboot. Within just one day of its release, the 1-minute 37-second trailer has already been viewed over 20 million times!
Aside from major surprises like the appearance of Galactus and The Thing’s comic-accurate design, one of the biggest highlights is the live-action debut of HERBIE, the Fantastic Four’s beloved robot. Curious about this character? Let’s dive into some interesting facts about HERBIE!
The Fantastic Four: First Steps, Who is The Players?
1. Created by Reed Richards and Master Xar
HERBIE (Humanoid Experimental Robot B-Type Integrated Electronics) made its first appearance in Fantastic Four #209 (1979). With its adorable design and advanced capabilities, HERBIE has always been a reliable sidekick for the Fantastic Four. It was originally built by Reed Richards and Master Xar to help track down Galactus.
HERBIE’s appearance in the movie has left fans eager to see how it will assist the Fantastic Four on screen!
2. Sacrificed Itself to Save the Fantastic Four
HERBIE’s story began with a tragic event. Unbeknownst to Reed Richards and Master Xar, the robot was secretly controlled by Doctor Sun, an enemy of the Fantastic Four with a “living brain.” Doctor Sun implanted a hidden program into HERBIE’s system, planning to steal The Sphinx’s power and destroy the Fantastic Four.
During the attack, Reed Richards managed to briefly free HERBIE by disconnecting the computer system at the Baxter Building. However, Doctor Sun continued to manipulate HERBIE. Realizing the long-term threat, HERBIE ultimately sacrificed itself, self-destructing along with Doctor Sun to save the powerless Fantastic Four.
A true hero, right?
3. Recreated to Care for Franklin Richards
After HERBIE’s devastating loss, Reed Richards decided to build a new version of the robot, this time as a caretaker for his son, Franklin Richards. With his genius-level intellect and endless curiosity, Franklin was always experimenting with advanced technology, often causing trouble for HERBIE.
HERBIE’s funny and chaotic interactions with Franklin were featured in the comic series Franklin Richards: Son of A Genius (2005-2009). Over time, Reed continued improving HERBIE, eventually creating multiple upgraded versions. HERBIE later became a well-respected robot among Marvel superheroes.
The Fantastic Four: First Steps Teaser Releases Hits 19M Views in a Short Time
4. A Small but Powerful Robot
Don’t let HERBIE’s size fool you—this robot is packed with impressive abilities! Thanks to Reed Richards’ upgrades, HERBIE has several powerful features:
a Connected to the entire Fantastic Four headquarters computer system
b. Can communicate with any network or system worldwide
c. Equipped with laser beams and electrical shock attacks
d. Built with ultra-durable armor for protection
Whenever the Fantastic Four headquarters is under attack, HERBIE is the first line of defense. Additionally, the robot has hidden tools and features accessible only by the Fantastic Four.
While HERBIE’s full potential hasn’t been showcased in the trailer yet, fans are hoping the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) will bring out its incredible action sequences in the live-action film.
5. Doctor Doom Created a Rival HERBIE in the Ultimate Universe
In the Ultimate Universe comic series, HERBIE received a surprising design overhaul. In The Ultimates #8, it was portrayed as a floating volleyball-shaped robot instead of its original humanoid form.
Furthermore, Doctor Doom—one of the Fantastic Four’s greatest enemies—created his own version of HERBIE, designed with a sinister look resembling his iconic mask. Doom’s primary goal was to use this robot to spy on Marvel’s superheroes.
With both Galactus and HERBIE confirmed in The Fantastic Four: First Steps, many fans are speculating that Doctor Doom might also make his long-awaited MCU debut.
The first trailer of The Fantastic Four: First Steps has sparked massive excitement. With these legendary characters returning to the big screen, the film is expected to rival the success of Deadpool & Wolverine (2024).
Mark your calendars, The Fantastic Four: First Steps is set to premiere on July 25, 2025! Are you ready for this thrilling adventure?