Julia Garner shrugs off Silver Surfer backlash.

Julia Garner shrugs off Silver Surfer backlash.

Julia Garner, who has been cast as the Silver Surfer in Marvel’s upcoming The Fantastic Four: First Steps, has responded to the backlash surrounding the decision to cast a woman in the traditionally male role. Addressing the criticism, Garner said, “I’m just going to do my job and give it my all.” The actress emphasized her focus on performance rather than public opinion, adding that great storytelling should transcend gender. While some fans have expressed disappointment online, many others have shown excitement about Marvel’s bold new direction. Garner, known for her versatility and intensity, remains confident that the character’s essence will shine through regardless of gender.

Julia Garner Claps Back at Silver Surfer Backlash: “I’m Just Going to Do My Job”

Julia Garner is set to make her Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) debut with a bold new take on a classic character in The Fantastic Four: First Steps. The Emmy-winning actress, known for her riveting performances in Ozark and Inventing Anna, will portray Shalla-Bal—the female version of the iconic Silver Surfer. While Marvel’s choice to introduce a gender-swapped version of the cosmic anti-hero has sparked both excitement and outrage among fans, Garner is taking the backlash in stride.

The upcoming film marks a major milestone for the MCU. Not only does it officially introduce Marvel’s “First Family”—The Fantastic Four—into the cinematic universe, but it also revives the Silver Surfer, a character not seen on screen since 2007’s Fantastic Four: Rise of the Silver Surfer. That version featured Norrin Radd, the original Silver Surfer, portrayed physically by Doug Jones and voiced by Laurence Fishburne. Now, First Steps will shift the focus to Shalla-Bal, another Silver Surfer from Marvel Comics lore.

Julia Garner Responds to Controversy

At the London premiere of the film, Garner addressed the polarizing reaction to her casting while speaking to the BBC. Some fans had voiced disapproval over the decision to cast a woman in a role traditionally portrayed by a man. However, Garner remained unfazed by the criticism.

For Garner, the focus remains on authenticity, character depth, and performance—not satisfying every corner of fandom.

She also pointed out a key detail that some critics seemed to overlook: “Also, it’s Shalla-Bal, so it’s different.” The actress is portraying a canonically established character from the comics—Shalla-Bal, In Marvel Comics, Shalla-Bal was not only a ruler of the planet Zenn-La but also the love interest of Norrin Radd. In alternate storylines, she assumes the mantle of the Silver Surfer herself, giving legitimacy to this cinematic interpretation.

A Different Kind of Silver Surfer

While the original Silver Surfer, Norrin Radd, is known for his tragic backstory and stoic demeanor, Shalla-Bal brings a new dimension to the role. In the comics, she embodies strength, sacrifice, and cosmic power, with a slightly different emotional core. With Julia Garner portraying her, fans can expect a nuanced, compelling, and perhaps more emotionally layered version of the Silver Surfer.

Marvel’s move to spotlight Shalla-Bal represents a broader shift within the studio toward exploring lesser-known storylines and characters from the comics. While the MCU has long been known for reinventing origin stories and updating heroes for modern audiences, this particular casting decision serves as both a nod to comic book accuracy and an opportunity to expand the universe’s diversity in meaningful ways.

All Eyes on *The Fantastic Four: First Steps*

Directed by Matt Shakman (WandaVision), The Fantastic Four: First Steps boasts a star-studded cast and an ambitious storyline.

Set against a sprawling intergalactic backdrop, First Steps is expected to blend the character-driven drama of Earth’s most iconic superhero family with the cosmic stakes of Marvel’s larger universe. According to insiders, the film will explore themes of legacy, sacrifice, and identity—elements that align well with both the Fantastic Four’s origin and the Silver Surfer’s mythos.

Garner’s Rising Star

Julia Garner’s foray into the superhero genre comes at a pivotal moment in her career. With multiple accolades and critical acclaim under her belt, the actress is among Hollywood’s most respected talents of her generation. Her decision to step into the MCU reflects not just the franchise’s growing appeal among serious actors but also her own desire to take creative risks.

In previous interviews, Garner has spoken about seeking roles that challenge her and allow her to explore human vulnerability and strength. Taking on the cosmic complexity of the Silver Surfer seems like a natural next step.

As Marvel moves into its next cinematic phase, The Fantastic Four: First Steps appears poised to be a cornerstone project. By choosing to center the Silver Surfer story on Shalla-Bal, Marvel signals a willingness to evolve its storytelling and to trust audiences with more layered narratives.

Despite the online uproar from certain fans, many others have celebrated the casting as a brave and fresh decision. Social media has been buzzing with support for Garner, with fans praising Marvel for staying true to its expansive comic history.

As for Julia Garner, her approach is clear-eyed and grounded: “I’m just going to do my job.” With that level of focus and talent, she just might redefine what it means to be the Silver Surfer for a whole new generation.

The Fantastic Four: First Steps is slated to release in theatres on July 25.