28/07/2024
Robert Downey Jr. Returns to Marvel as Dr. Doom
Robert Downey Jr. is set to return to the Marvel superhero universe after a five-year hiatus, but not as Iron Man, the role that launched the blockbuster franchise. Instead, Downey Jr. will make his comeback as Dr. Victor Von Doom, a prominent villain from the comic books that inspired the popular film series.
Downey Jr. will appear in "Avengers: Doomsday," scheduled for release in May 2026, and in a subsequent installment titled "Secret Wars" set for the following year. The announcement was made at the Comic-Con event in San Diego, where new stars joining the Marvel franchise were also unveiled.
Appearing on stage disguised behind Dr. Doom's iconic mask and green cloak, Downey Jr. revealed himself to an excited crowd. Speaking to reporters, he said, "I like playing complicated characters."
The 59-year-old actor was instrumental in launching the Marvel movie universe, starring in its first film, "Iron Man," in 2008. He last appeared in a Marvel film in 2019's "Avengers: Endgame." Earlier this year, Downey Jr. won an Oscar for his role in "Oppenheimer."
Marvel plans to release three more films in 2025 before "Avengers" returns to the big screen. "Captain America: Brave New World" will feature Harrison Ford replacing the late William Hurt as General Thaddeus “Thunderbolt” Ross. Florence Pugh will take on a leading role in "Thunderbolts," and Pedro Pascal will make his Marvel debut in "The Fantastic Four: First Steps."
Disney's Marvel movie series, which has generated $30 billion (£23.3 billion) in box office takings, has seen profits slow in recent years. However, the recent release of "Deadpool & Wolverine," starring Ryan Reynolds and Hugh Jackman, has sparked potential revival, earning $96 million on its opening day.
Last year, Marvel dropped actor Jonathan Majors, who played villain Kang the Conqueror, following his conviction for assaulting his girlfriend.