Marvel fans received an electrifying announcement at the San Diego Comic-Con: Robert Downey Jr. will be making a dramatic return to the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU). However, this time, he won’t be donning the iconic Iron Man suit. Instead, the 59-year-old actor will be stepping into the formidable role of Doctor Doom, aka Victor von Doom.
Downey Jr. is set to portray the legendary Marvel villain in two highly anticipated films: “Avengers: Doomsday,” slated for release in May 2026, and “Avengers: Secret Wars,” expected to hit theaters in May 2027. The films will be helmed by acclaimed directors Joe and Anthony Russo, who have a storied history with the MCU.
“If we’re going to bring Doctor Doom to the screen — he is one of the most complex characters, most entertaining characters in all of fiction,” Joe Russo stated during the announcement. “If we’re going to do this … then we are going to need the greatest actor in the world.”
In a ceremony filled with theatrics, Robert Downey Jr returns to Marvel, will play Doctor Doom in the next two Avengers movies. pic.twitter.com/rsmNY5mzfD
— Borys Kit (@Borys_Kit) July 28, 2024
This unexpected casting decision follows Downey Jr.’s last appearance as Tony Stark/Iron Man in 2019’s “Avengers: Endgame,” where (spoiler alert) Stark met his heroic end. The Russo brothers, reflecting on their previous work with Downey Jr., expressed profound excitement for his new role.
“That four-movie run was incredible,” Anthony Russo commented on the Avengers films. “And it left us really spent, with all of our emotions on the floor. In the time since, through a very special story, Joe and I have come to potentially see a road forward with you all.”
The upcoming Avengers movies will see the return of screenwriter Stephen McFeely, who, alongside Christopher Markus and the Russo brothers, co-wrote several previous Marvel blockbusters. McFeely’s involvement signals a continuation of the high-quality storytelling that fans have come to expect from the MCU.
The news of Downey Jr. taking on the role of Doctor Doom has sparked immense curiosity and excitement among fans and industry insiders alike. Doctor Doom, known for his intellect, sorcery, and complex personality, is one of Marvel’s most compelling antagonists. Downey Jr.’s portrayal is anticipated to bring a new depth and dimension to the character, promising a thrilling experience for audiences.
As the MCU evolves and expands, the return of Robert Downey Jr. in such a pivotal role marks a significant moment. Fans eagerly await the release of “Avengers: Doomsday” and “Avengers: Secret Wars,” set to redefine the superhero saga once again.
Side Note: Both films are expected to pay homage to the late rapper MF DOOM, whose influence on the character and the genre cannot be understated. RIP MF DOOM.
