Fantastic Four Hits Record-Low Disney+ Streaming Numbers Despite Box Office Success
Marvel's biggest 2025 theatrical hit faces unexpected streaming struggles as Disney+ viewership falls short of expectations compared to other MCU releases.
Marvel's most financially successful theatrical release of 2025 has encountered an unexpected setback in the streaming arena. The Fantastic Four: First Steps, which dominated box offices when it launched on July 25, 2025, has registered surprisingly weak viewership numbers since arriving on Disney+ this past November 5th.
Streaming Performance Falls Short
The disappointing streaming metrics present a puzzling contradiction for Marvel Studios executives. While moviegoers flocked to theaters to witness the long-awaited return of Marvel's First Family, home viewers seem less enthusiastic about revisiting the adventure on the streaming platform.
Industry analysts note that Thunderbolts, another recent MCU entry, has significantly outperformed the Fantastic Four reboot in terms of Disney+ engagement metrics. This disparity raises questions about audience retention and the film's rewatchability factor.
High Stakes for Marvel's Future
The lackluster streaming debut carries particular weight given Marvel Studios' ambitious plans for the superhero team. The studio has positioned the Fantastic Four as central figures in upcoming blockbuster events, including the highly anticipated Avengers: Doomsday and the rumored Secret Wars epic.
These streaming numbers create a complicated narrative for franchise executives who must balance theatrical success against digital platform performance. The mixed signals from audiences suggest that while the film attracted curious moviegoers, it may have struggled to create the lasting impact necessary for sustained franchise momentum.