Robert Downey Jr. Set to Make Marvel Comeback as Doctor Doom
By M Muzamil Shami
Robert Downey Jr. is making a long-awaited return to the Marvel superhero universe after a five-year hiatus, but not as Iron Man, the iconic role that launched the blockbuster franchise.
Instead, the actor will step into the shoes of Dr. Victor Von Doom, a major villain in the comic books that inspired the popular film series.
Downey Jr. will feature in "Avengers: Doomsday," set to be released in May 2026, followed by another installment titled "Secret Wars" the following year.
These exciting additions to the Marvel franchise were revealed at the Comic-Con event in San Diego.
Downey Jr. made a dramatic entrance on stage, hidden behind Doctor Doom's iconic mask and green cloak, before revealing his true identity to the excited fans.
Speaking to reporters, the 59-year-old actor expressed his enjoyment in portraying complex characters.
He played a crucial role in establishing the Marvel movie universe, starring in its inaugural film, Iron Man, in 2008.
His most recent appearance in a Marvel film was in 2019's Avengers: Endgame.
Earlier this year, the American actor won an Oscar for his role in Oppenheimer.
Marvel is gearing up to release three more films in 2025 before the Avengers make their return to the big screen.
In Captain America: Brave New World, Harrison Ford will step into the role of General Thaddeus "Thunderbolt" Ross, succeeding the late William Hurt.
Florence Pugh is set to play a prominent role in Thunderbolts, while Pedro Pascal will debut in the Marvel universe with The Fantastic Four: First Steps.
Disney's Marvel movie series, the first franchise to surpass $30 billion (£23.3 billion) in box office earnings, has seen profits slow in recent years.
However, the recent release of Deadpool & Wolverine, featuring Ryan Reynolds and Hugh Jackman, has sparked hopes for a resurgence, earning $96 million on its opening day.
Last year, Marvel parted ways with actor Jonathan Majors, who portrayed the villain Kang the Conqueror, following his conviction for assaulting his girlfriend.
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