The Marvel Cinematic Universe wouldn’t be the success it is today if it wasn’t for Robert Downey Jr., and their partnership will soon continue. Iron Man star agreed to return to this superhero franchise as the iconic villain Doctor Doom.
Marvel shared many exciting news about the future of the MCU at this year’s San Diego Comic-Con. Avengers: Endgame directors the Russo brothers announced they’re returning to direct two new films – Avengers: Doomsday and Avengers: Secret Wars – and they’re not the only ones making a comeback.
New Avengers movies call for a new big baddie after Jonathan Majors exited the franchise as Kang. Doctor Doom seemed like a perfect villain to help the MCU step into the new age, and his casting was announced in the most theatrical fashion.
A group of masked figures in olive robes stepped on stage at Comic-Con, along with a mysterious man wearing Doctor Doom’s signature green colors. He took the mask off and the room erupted into cheers after it was revealed that the man behind the mask was Robert Downey Jr.
“New mask, same task,” Downey told the audience, alluding to the fact he previously played one of the MCU’s biggest heroes – Tony Stark aka the Iron Man. He’ll now get to try his hand at playing a villain in Avengers: Doomsday and Avengers: Secret Wars, set to come out in 2026 and 2027.