Robert Downey Jr. unexpectedly announced his return to the Marvel superhero universe today at Comic-Con 2024 in San Diego, California, causing a frenzy of excitement among Avengers fans around the globe.
Despite assurances to the contrary last December from Marvel Studios head Kevin Feige, the Oscar-winning actor is returning to the Marvel Cinematic Universe to portray the infamous villain Doctor Doom from the Fantastic Four in the next two Avengers adventures.
For over a decade, Downey Jr. embodied the beloved Iron Man before the superhero’s cinematic death in his attempt to save the universe in Avengers: Endgame in 2019.
Robert Downey Jr.: “New mask, same job”
Downey Jr. made a dramatic entrance on stage wearing the iconic green cloak and mask of Doctor Doom, joined by others in similar attire. When he pulled off the mask to reveal his face, the crowd erupted in cheers, as seen in the video.
“New mask, same job,” Downey Jr. told the audience.
Broadway Debut for Robert Downey Jr. – Where He Will Perform
The Russo brothers, Anthony and Joe, who have directed several hits in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, including Avengers: Infinity War, will direct both upcoming “Avengers” films, Avengers: Doomsday, expected to hit theaters in May 2026, and Avengers: Secret Wars, which will be released a year later.
The main antagonist of the Avengers will be Dr. Doom, portrayed by Robert Downey Jr.
“If we’re going to bring Dr. Doom to life on the big screen – one of the most complex and entertaining fantasy characters – if we’re going to do this, then we need the best actor in the world,” said Joe Russo.
The announcement of Robert Downey Jr.’s return came after a resurgence of audience enthusiasm for the Marvel universe following record box office receipts for Deadpool & Wolverine over the weekend.
The latest adventure of the Fantastic Four is scheduled for release in July 2025, featuring Pedro Pascal (the well-known Mandalorian from Star Wars) in the role of Reed Richards / Mr. Fantastic.