Avengers: Doomsday – Robert Downey Jr’s MCU Return As Doctor Doom, Explained

Avengers: Doomsday - Robert Downey Jr's MCU Return As Doctor Doom, Explained

As a long-time Marvel fan and avid follower of Robert Downey Jr.’s incredible acting career, I couldn’t believe my eyes when I heard the shocking news that Downey would be returning to the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) – not as Tony Stark, but as none other than Doctor Doom!


Robert Downey Jr., who played Iron Man in the Marvel Cinematic Universe and won an Oscar for his role, is set to make a comeback. His tenure as Tony Stark came to an end in “Avengers: Endgame” (2019), where his character made the ultimate sacrifice against Thanos (Josh Brolin), the final formidable foe.

Surprisingly, contrary to expectations, Downey isn’t merely reprising his role for another outing. Instead, reports suggest he will don the identity of Victor von Doom in the upcoming project.

At San Diego Comic-Con 2024 during Marvel Studios’ Hall H panel, Robert Downey Jr.’s complete transformation into Doctor Doom was unveiled to the eager crowd. #SDCC

— Rob Keyes (@rob_keyes) July 28, 2024

In the video from Rob Keyes of ScreenRant, during Marvel Studios’ promotion of “Avengers: Doomsday” at Comic-Con Hall H, the Russo brothers and Kevin Feige appeared in front of a line-up of masked Doctor Doom characters. They expressed the need for an exceptional actor to bring this powerful villain to life on screen. Suddenly, there was a moment of suspense. One of the Dooms then removed their mask, revealing none other than Robert Downey Jr. himself. Let’s decipher what happened.

In the comics, Doom and Iron Man did a bit of a switcheroo

Avengers: Doomsday - Robert Downey Jr's MCU Return As Doctor Doom, Explained

In the comic “What If? Iron Man: Demon in Armor” published in 2010, readers are transported to the alternate reality of Earth-11029. In this universe, a young Tony Stark functions as a substitute for Reed Richards (Mister Fantastic). Sharing living quarters with none other than Victor von Doom, Stark experiences Doom’s disdain and envy. At the story’s onset, Doom deceitfully persuades Stark to collaborate on constructing an advanced gadget that exchanges their minds. Trapped in Doom’s body, Stark is compelled to make a disappointing return to Latveria, while Doom revels in the benefits of being Tony Stark.

In an intense and pivotal turn of events, Stark finds himself in a high-risk situation reminiscent of “Face/Off.” He must battle depression, addiction, and the formidable foe of Doom. With Robert Downey Jr.’s return to the Marvel Cinematic Universe and the franchise exploring the Multiverse further, this “What If?” story presents an intriguing opportunity. It would not only showcase Doom as a truly despicable villain but also offer Downey a chance to explore the complexities of portraying Stark under Doom’s control. The potential for an enthralling character study is immense.

Doctor Doom and Robert Downey Jr. were needed to fill a massive void in the MCU

Avengers: Doomsday - Robert Downey Jr's MCU Return As Doctor Doom, Explained

In May 2026, “Avengers: Doomsday” is scheduled to hit theaters. It’s unclear if Downey will portray a Doom-controlled Tony Stark or take on the role of the antagonist himself. At Comic Con, Downey was simply referred to as “Victor von Doom.” Regardless of Disney and Marvel’s decision, it’s evident that either Doom or Downey possesses the right name to fill the gap left by Jonathan Majors, who was originally intended to headline as the next major Marvel antagonist following Thanos.

As a dedicated gamer in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), I’m excited to suggest Doctor Doom as the next big villain after Kang the Conqueror stepped down from the role. It feels strange seeing this classic character associated more with the “Avengers” than the “Fantastic Four,” his long-standing adversaries. However, let me tell you, Doctor Doom has always been a formidable foe for every Marvel hero out there. He’s got a burning desire for chaos and conflict, so we’ll see how Feige and the Russo brothers bring him to life now that Iron Man is back in the game.

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2024-07-28 07:44