Robert Downey Jr. is making a surprising return to the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), but not as Iron Man. Instead, he will portray Victor von Doom, Doctor Doom, in the upcoming “Avengers: Doomsday.” This film will be directed by Joe and Anthony Russo, marking their return to the MCU. In addition to “Avengers: Doomsday,” the Russo brothers are also set to direct another Marvel film, “Avengers: Secret Wars.”
Downey’s return to Marvel has taken the fandom by surprise. Many fans had speculated that he might reprise his iconic role as Tony Stark/Iron Man, especially after his openness to returning to Marvel in recent interviews. However, his casting as the villainous Doctor Doom was a shocking revelation, particularly for the audience at Marvel’s San Diego Comic-Con presentation, where Downey made a triumphant appearance to announce his return.
Robert Downey Jr. Played Tony Stark In MCU from 2008 to 2019
Downey first appeared as Tony Stark in the 2008 film “Iron Man,” which launched the MCU. Over the next decade, he played Stark in ten Marvel films, including “Iron Man 2,” “Iron Man 3,” “The Incredible Hulk,” “The Avengers,” “Captain America: Civil War,” “Avengers: Age of Ultron,” “Spider-Man: Homecoming,” “Avengers: Infinity War,” and “Avengers: Endgame.” “Endgame” marked the end of Stark’s journey, with the character’s emotional death.
Marvel Studios president Kevin Feige had previously emphasized the importance of preserving the impact of Iron Man’s death. In a Vanity Fair interview last December, Feige stated, “We are going to keep that moment and not touch that moment again. We all worked very hard for many years to get to that, and we would never want to magically undo it in any way.”
Despite Iron Man’s definitive conclusion, Downey expressed his willingness to return to the MCU in an interview with Esquire magazine following his Oscar win for his role in “Oppenheimer.” When asked if he would consider returning to Marvel, Downey responded enthusiastically, “Happily. 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.”
Robert Downey Jr. In MCU As Victor Von Doom
Downey’s portrayal of Victor von Doom signals a new chapter in his career within the MCU. This casting choice continues a remarkable year for the actor. His performance as Lewis Strauss in Christopher Nolan’s “Oppenheimer” earned him an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor in March. Additionally, Downey recently appeared in Park Chan-wook’s HBO mini-series “The Sympathizer,” where he played CIA operative Claude, along with several other roles. His work in the mini-series garnered him an Emmy nomination for Supporting Actor in a Limited Series or Anthology.
The return of the Russo brothers to direct “Avengers: Doomsday” and “Avengers: Secret Wars” has also generated excitement. The duo previously helmed some of the MCU’s most successful films, including “Captain America: The Winter Soldier,” “Captain America: Civil War,” “Avengers: Infinity War,” and “Avengers: Endgame.” Their involvement in these upcoming projects suggests that Marvel Studios aims to maintain the high standards and interconnected storytelling that have become the franchise’s hallmark.
“Avengers: Doomsday” will introduce Victor von Doom, a character with a rich comic book history. Doctor Doom is one of Marvel’s most iconic villains, known for his genius intellect, mastery of science and sorcery, and his complex motivations. Downey’s interpretation of the character is eagerly anticipated, as it will offer a fresh take on a well-established villain within the MCU.
In summary, Robert Downey Jr.’s return to the Marvel Cinematic Universe as Doctor Doom in “Avengers: Doomsday” marks a thrilling development for fans. Alongside the Russo brothers’ return to direct, this casting choice promises to bring new dimensions to the MCU’s storytelling. With Downey’s celebrated acting skills and the Russo brothers’ proven directorial expertise, “Avengers: Doomsday” is poised to be a significant and exciting addition to the Marvel saga.