Robert Downey Jr.’s surprise return to the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) at Comic-Con sent shockwaves through the fandom. The question on everyone’s lips was how could Iron Man, who perished in ‘Avengers: Endgame,’ possibly make a comeback?
Downey, in an interview on The Hollywood Reporter’s Awards Chatter podcast, revealed that a conversation with Marvel Studios president Kevin Feige sparked his interest in a second MCU stint. Feige presented Downey and his wife, Susan, with a unique idea: playing Victor Von Doom, the notorious villain from the Fantastic Four comics.
Intrigued by the challenge, Downey sought to ensure the comeback wouldn’t disappoint fans. He questioned Feige about how to avoid going backwards and how to maintain the high expectations set by his previous Marvel roles. Feige’s response was to embrace the complexities of Victor Von Doom, a character known for his brilliance and ambition.
With Downey on board, Feige then secured the approval of Disney CEO Bob Iger. Downey, in a meeting at Iger’s home, outlined his vision for portraying Doom, and Iger was immediately supportive.
The official announcement came at the 2024 San Diego Comic-Con, where Downey, unmasked, revealed himself as Doom. He will star in two upcoming Avengers films: ‘Avengers: Doomsday,’ slated for release on May 1, 2026, and ‘Avengers: Secret Wars,’ scheduled for May 7, 2027. Reports indicate Downey will receive a hefty $100 million for his involvement in these two films.
Downey’s return as Victor Von Doom adds a new layer of intrigue to the MCU. His portrayal of the powerful villain promises to be a compelling and unforgettable experience for fans. The stage is set for an epic clash of heroes and villains as the Avengers face their most formidable foe yet.
