Pedro Pascal Faces Backlash Over Vanessa Kirby’s Affectionate Behavior at Fantastic Four: First Steps Premiere

The promotional tour for Marvel’s latest blockbuster, The Fantastic Four: First Steps, has been a whirlwind of glitz, glamour, and fan excitement. With a star-studded cast led by Pedro Pascal, Vanessa Kirby, Joseph Quinn, and Ebon Moss-Bachrach, the film has garnered significant attention as it ushers in a new chapter for the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Set in a retro-futuristic 1960s-inspired world, the movie promises a fresh take on Marvel’s First Family, tackling cosmic threats like the planet-devouring Galactus. However, the buzz surrounding the film’s premiere has shifted from its cinematic achievements to a brewing controversy involving Pedro Pascal and Vanessa Kirby, whose on-tour interactions have sparked heated discussions online.

During the global press tour, which included stops in Sydney, London, Berlin, and Los Angeles, fans and media alike noticed an unusual level of physical affection between Pascal and Kirby, who portray the married couple Reed Richards (Mister Fantastic) and Sue Storm (Invisible Woman) in the film. Kirby, who is 37, engaged, and visibly pregnant with her first child, has been seen stroking Pascal’s face, neck, and beard during interviews and red-carpet appearances. These moments, particularly highlighted during a Buzzfeed interview and at the Los Angeles premiere on July 21, 2025, have ignited a firestorm on social media, with some fans labeling the interactions as inappropriate. The controversy has placed Pascal, 50, at the center of criticism, with accusations ranging from unprofessionalism to enabling inappropriate behavior from a married and expectant mother.

The public’s reaction has been polarized. Social media platforms, particularly X, have been abuzz with commentary. One user remarked, “Pedro Pascal and Vanessa Kirby getting real cozy during the Fantastic Four press run… even though she’s engaged and pregnant by Paul Rabil.” Another post went further, stating, “Doing this with another man while you’re pregnant and engaged is diabolical,” reflecting the sentiment of those who view Kirby’s actions as crossing a line. The criticism has not solely targeted Kirby; Pascal has faced scrutiny for seemingly reciprocating or not discouraging the affection. One X user commented, “According to him, he has terrible anxiety in public situations. Guess that’s an excuse to inappropriately touch his female coworkers. Vanessa Kirby is literally engaged and pregnant. I’d be PISSED if I was her fiancé.” The implication of an overly close relationship has even led to speculation about a “secret affair,” despite no evidence supporting such claims.

However, not all reactions have been negative. Some fans have come to the defense of both actors, arguing that their tactile behavior is a natural extension of their close working relationship and the emotional demands of their roles. Pascal and Kirby spent months filming together, portraying a married couple navigating the complexities of family and heroism. One supporter on X noted, “Because she knows him and is being a good friend. He suffers from anxiety and physical touch calms him. He’s pretty open about this.” Another fan pointed out the context of their roles, stating, “They just played a married couple for two years. What do you expect?” These defenders argue that the public is reading too much into what could simply be a supportive friendship, amplified by the intense chemistry required for their on-screen dynamic.

In interviews, both Pascal and Kirby have spoken about the familial bond they developed with their co-stars. During a Sydney fan event, Pascal shared, “It felt like family,” describing how their real-life camaraderie mirrored the Fantastic Four’s dynamic. Kirby echoed this sentiment, telling Marvel.com, “Something about the domestic thing that every person can identify with in every way. And that’s something that’s so universal and that makes it really, really special.” Their comments suggest a deep professional and personal connection, which may explain their comfort with each other during public appearances. Yet, these statements have done little to quell the controversy, as critics argue that such displays should be tempered given Kirby’s personal circumstances.

The controversy took an unexpected turn during an interview with BBC 1 Radio, where Pascal and Kirby recounted a lighthearted anecdote about being “told off” on a flight from London to Mexico City. Joined by co-stars Quinn and Moss-Bachrach, the group was reportedly asked to separate in first class for talking too loudly. Kirby laughed, “We were talking too much, apparently,” while Pascal added, “We really weren’t doing anything.” The story, meant to be a humorous aside, has been cited by some as evidence of their overly familiar behavior, with one X user noting, “Pedro Pascal and Vanessa Kirby both are unprofessional weirdos doing this shit especially with her pregnant, married ass.” The incident has added fuel to the narrative that their conduct, even in casual settings, is inappropriate.

The film itself has received mixed but largely positive reviews, with critics praising its retro-futuristic aesthetic and the cast’s chemistry. Robbie Collin of The Telegraph called it “Marvel’s best film in a decade,” highlighting Kirby’s performance as Sue Storm as particularly compelling. However, some reviews have noted weaknesses in pacing and character development, with one social media critic stating, “The retro-futuristic visuals look lifeless… the script lacks emotional weight.” Despite these critiques, the film’s box-office prospects remain strong, with fans eager to see how it sets the stage for Marvel’s Phase Six and the upcoming Avengers: Doomsday.

The controversy surrounding Pascal and Kirby raises broader questions about public perception of celebrity interactions. In an era where every gesture is scrutinized on social media, the line between professional camaraderie and inappropriate behavior is increasingly blurred. Pascal, known for his affable “Internet’s Daddy” persona, has previously been open about his struggles with anxiety, which some fans believe explains his reliance on physical touch for comfort. Kirby, meanwhile, has been celebrated for her poised yet fierce portrayal of Sue Storm, a role that required her to balance motherhood and heroism. Her visible pregnancy during the press tour, including a striking appearance at the Berlin premiere in a black gown, has only heightened public interest in her personal life.

As the debate rages on, it’s worth considering the context of their roles and the pressures of a high-profile promotional tour. The Fantastic Four’s narrative hinges on family and unity, themes that Pascal and Kirby have emphasized in their interviews. Their on-screen chemistry, described by The Hollywood Reporter as “palpable,” is a testament to their ability to embody Marvel’s First Family. Yet, the off-screen fallout suggests that even well-intentioned gestures can be misinterpreted in the court of public opinion.

For now, the controversy shows no signs of slowing down, with fans and critics alike dissecting every interaction between Pascal and Kirby. Whether this will impact the film’s reception remains to be seen, but it has undoubtedly added an unexpected layer of intrigue to The Fantastic Four: First Steps. As the movie hits theaters on July 25, 2025, audiences will have the chance to judge the cast’s performances for themselves—both on the screen and in the spotlight.