Key Takeaways:
– Robert Downey Jr. is to play Doctor Doom in “Avengers: Doomsday”
– The actor was offered the role by Marvel Studios president Kevin Feige
– Downey Jr. kept his comeback a secret from his Avengers colleagues
– Jonathan Majors stepped down with Doom replacing Kang as Marvel’s new villain
– “Avengers: Doomsday” is releasing on May 1, 2026
Marvel enthusiasts were left spellbound at the San Diego Comic-Con with the news that their beloved actor Robert Downey Jr. is returning to the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU). He’s not just coming back; he’s returning with a twist. Downey Jr. will don the character of the much-anticipated Doctor Doom in the upcoming movie “Avengers: Doomsday”. A big surprise, indeed!
The Story Behind Downey Jr.’s Comeback
The journey started about a year ago when Downey, Susan Downey – his better half and production partner, and Kevin Feige – the president of Marvel Studios, discussed the future. Downey Jr., Feige, and Jon Favreau kept in touch even after their superhero endeavors.
Feige, recognizing Downey’s talent and influence, proposed him the idea of a comeback. Always game for contributing to Marvel, Downey Jr. expressed his interest to Bob Iger, the CEO of Disney.
Upon learning about the character of Victor von Doom, Downey Jr. was immediately fascinated. Iger gave a thumbs up to Downey’s return as Doctor Doom. Now, that must have been a moment of exhilaration!
Mum’s the Word
Downey Jr.’s comeback as the Marvel villain was kept hushed up from almost everyone including his Avengers co-star, Jeremy Renner. When Renner found out, he was just like, “He didn’t say anything to me!”
Changes in the Mastermind’s Roster
Kang, the Conqueror, is making way for Doctor Doom in the Marvel franchise. The character of Kang was played by Jonathan Majors who expressed that he was “heartbroken” to be replaced. However, Majors lauded the character of Doctor Doom as wicked and awesome.
When asked about his potential comeback as Kang, Majors was all fire and zest. “Hell yeah! I love Kang. If that’s what the fans want, and that’s what Marvel wants, then let’s roll.“ he stated, reflecting his love for the character.
Upcoming Marvel Movies
Expect a blockbuster summer in the next few years with the release of “Avengers: Doomsday” lined up for May 1, 2026. The action doesn’t stop there, with “Avengers: Secret Wars” following it up on May 7, 2027. Get ready, Marvel fans. The superhero universe is getting Doom-ed!
In Conclusion
The return of Robert Downey Jr. to the MCU is a grand spectacle in itself. Multiplying the excitement is the revealing of his character as Doctor Doom. Be ready for surprises and let the countdown to “Avengers: Doomsday” begin!