The long-awaited arrival of The Fantastic Four: First Steps on Disney+ has led to an unexpected outcome. According to newly released Nielsen data, the film posted 4.9 million Equivalent Completed Views in its first five days, which is the lowest opening recorded for any MCU title on the platform. The debut places the film at the bottom of the franchise’s streaming rankings.
Fantastic Four: First Steps’ viewership count in first five days on Disney+ is worrying
The latest Nielsen figures hint at a concerning start for Fantastic Four: First Steps on Disney+. The film accumulated only 4.9 million Equivalent Completed Views in the United States during its first five days of availability on Disney+. This figure is the lowest recorded opening for any MCU theatrical release on the platform. It immediately places the project at the bottom of Marvel’s streaming performance chart. (via Netflix & Chiffres)
Although the film marks the long-awaited introduction of the Fantastic Four into the MCU, its viewership numbers indicate a lukewarm response from audiences. The debut falls short of both MCU releases from earlier in 2025. Captain America: Brave New World achieved 6.4 million Equivalent Completed Views, and Thunderbolts reached 5.5 million during their initial five-day windows. Even The Marvels and Eternals, two titles widely criticized for their theatrical underperformance, surpassed First Steps with 5.3 million and 9.2 million views, respectively.
The difference becomes more noticeable when compared to one of the MCU’s recent streaming hits. In 2024, Deadpool and Wolverine reached 19.4 million global views in its first six days on Disney+.
The weaker response to Fantastic Four: First Steps also contributes to concerns surrounding the MCU’s current streaming performance. Several recent projects have opened to increasingly softer numbers, creating uncertainty about the franchise’s ability to sustain consistent engagement on Disney+. The situation also places greater focus on Marvel’s 2026 slate, which features major sequels and the return of prominent characters.
