Robert Downey Jr. is making a surprising return to the Marvel Cinematic Universe, but not as Iron Man. Instead, he’s taking on the role of Doctor Doom in the new “Avengers” movie titled “Avengers: Doomsday.” This movie will be directed by Joe and Anthony Russo, who are also set to direct another upcoming Marvel movie, “Avengers: Secret Wars.”
Fans have been eager to see Downey back in the Marvel fold, especially after he mentioned in interviews that he was open to returning. Most assumed he would reprise his iconic role as Tony Stark/Iron Man. So, his casting as the villainous Victor von Doom came as a huge shock, especially to the enthusiastic crowd at Marvel’s presentation at San Diego Comic-Con. Downey made a triumphant appearance in Hall H to announce his return, much to the delight of the fans.
Robert Downey Jr. first appeared as Tony Stark in the 2008 film “Iron Man,” which was the launchpad for the entire Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU). Over the next 11 years, he portrayed Iron Man in 10 Marvel films, including major hits like “The Avengers,” “Captain America: Civil War,” “Avengers: Infinity War,” and “Avengers: Endgame,” where his character made a heroic sacrifice.
After “Endgame,” Marvel Studios president Kevin Feige made it clear that they wouldn’t undermine the emotional impact of Iron Man’s death by bringing him back. Feige told Vanity Fair last December, “We are going to keep that moment and not touch it again. We worked very hard for many years to get to that point and would never want to undo it.”
Downey, who won an Oscar for his role in Christopher Nolan’s “Oppenheimer,” has expressed his willingness to return to Marvel. In an interview with Esquire magazine after his Academy Award win, he said he would happily come back to the MCU, emphasizing, “It’s too integral a part of my DNA. That role chose me. And look, I always say, ‘Never, ever bet against Kevin Feige.’ It is a losing bet. He’s the house. He will always win.”
This year has been monumental for Downey. Besides his Oscar win, he also starred in HBO’s mini-series “The Sympathizer,” where he played multiple roles, including CIA operative Claude, earning him an Emmy nomination for supporting actor in a limited series or anthology.
