Published in Grazia UK, August 4th, 2025
Vanessa Kirby emphasizes the significance of superhero narratives—not solely for their fantastical elements, but for their portrayal of human experiences. In the upcoming film Fantastic Four: First Steps, she portrays Sue Storm, known as the Invisible Woman, alongside co-stars Pedro Pascal, Joseph Quinn, and Ebon Moss-Bachrach. The movie’s vintage yet futuristic style has rejuvenated interest in Marvel’s First Family for modern audiences.
“Sue embodies positivity,” Kirby explains. “She’s not just a powerful hero; she deals with challenges involving Reed, has her frustrations with her brother, and juggles multiple responsibilities. That aspect really resonated with me.”
Taking on this role felt particularly poignant for Kirby, as Sue Storm is depicted as expecting a child—an experience that mirrors her own life as she awaits her first baby with her partner, Paul Rabil. “It feels surreal,” she shares. “I didn’t realize how much I would learn from Sue. Many women I know have voiced concerns about balancing motherhood and their careers. I had my own anxieties, but that’s an outdated mindset for women. We are capable of so much more than we think.”
Although filming Fantastic Four and Avengers: Doomsday while pregnant presented physical challenges, Kirby expressed gratitude for the support from her cast and crew. She acknowledges her stylist, Andrew Mukamal, for altering her fashion choices to accommodate her changing body and commends her Marvel colleagues for their supportive attitude on set.
Throughout her career, Kirby has focused on depicting vulnerability. From her role as Princess Margaret in The Crown to Josephine in Napoleon, and in her heart-wrenching Oscar-nominated performance in Pieces of a Woman, she infuses each character with emotional depth. “I’ve been fortunate to engage in deeply fulfilling creative endeavors,” she notes. “When the material is challenging, it’s essential to immerse yourself in it completely.”
Away from the spotlight, Kirby stays grounded by collaborating with War Child and getting involved in volunteer work at refugee camps. “There are individuals doing much more significant work than we are,” she remarks. “Ours is simply more visible. It’s important to acknowledge that and maintain a sense of gratitude.”
As she builds her production company, Aluna Entertainment, and prepares for motherhood, she is eager for the premiere of Fantastic Four. “Filming was such a joyful experience,” she expresses. “I can’t wait to share it with audiences.”
Fantastic Four: First Steps is set to hit theaters on July 25.
