Robert Downey Jr. is making a surprising return to the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), not as Iron Man, but as Victor von Doom, one of Marvel’s most iconic villains. Downey, who was pivotal in launching the MCU with his role as Tony Stark in 2008’s Iron Man, concluded his tenure in 2018’s Avengers: Endgame. This unexpected casting choice could be a defining moment for the MCU, with the potential to be either incredibly cool or somewhat absurd.
During Marvel Studios’ San Diego Comic-Con 2024 panel, Downey revealed his new role dramatically by appearing in a Dr. Doom mask, which he then removed to reveal his identity, stating, “New mask, same task.” This surprise announcement thrilled the audience and highlighted Marvel’s commitment to continually evolving and surprising its fanbase.
The panel also disclosed that Joe and Anthony Russo will return to direct two new Avengers films, Avengers: Doomsday in 2026 and Avengers: Secret Wars in 2027, with Victor von Doom set as the main antagonist. This announcement sets the stage for an epic showdown, leveraging Downey’s star power and acting prowess to bring a new dimension to the villainous character.
Downey expressed his enthusiasm for rejoining the MCU in recent interviews, describing his connection to the franchise as deeply ingrained in his identity. He praised Marvel Studios President Kevin Feige, emphasizing that betting against Feige is a losing proposition due to his consistent success in the industry. Downey’s return, albeit in a different role, signifies his enduring commitment to the Marvel universe.
Introducing Victor von Doom now aligns perfectly with the upcoming Fantastic Four: The First Steps, scheduled for release in July 2025. This timing ensures a seamless integration of the character into the MCU’s expanding narrative. While specific details about the new Avengers films remain scarce, anticipation is high, and fans are eager to see how Marvel Studios will weave Robert Downey Jr.’s return into the larger storyline.
