Before the Fantastic Four is a four-issue comic book mini-series published by Marvel Comics in 2000. It is a prequel to the Fantastic Four series, and tells the story of how the four members of the team met and formed their friendship.

The series was written by Joe Casey and drawn by Chris Bachalo. It was edited by Joe Quesada.

The series begins with Reed Richards, Ben Grimm, Sue Storm, and Johnny Storm all working at different jobs in New York City. Reed is a brilliant scientist, Ben is a test pilot, Sue is a fashion model, and Johnny is a street racer.

One day, Reed discovers a strange cosmic ray that has crashed into Earth. He investigates the crash site and finds a strange device. The device emits a strange energy that causes Reed to transform into the stretchable Mr. Fantastic.

Ben is also exposed to the cosmic ray and transforms into the rock-like Thing. Sue is exposed to the energy and gains the power to become invisible. Johnny is exposed to the energy and gains the power to fly.

The four friends decide to use their powers to help others. They become the Fantastic Four and fight crime and protect the innocent.