Robert Downey Jr. to return to the Marvel Cinematic Universe as Doctor Doom

On Saturday night at San Diego Comic-Con, Marvel Studios literally blew the roof off Hall H with an announcement of Robert Downey Jr.'s return to the MCU.

Instead of returning to his iconic Iron Man outfit, which he represented in over nine MCU films, he will play Doctor Doom in a new film called "Avengers: Doomsday."

Kevin Feige, the studio's president, first stated that "Avengers: Infinity War" and "Endgame" filmmakers Joe and Anthony Russo would return to the Marvel Cinematic Universe for two upcoming films, "Avengers: Doomsday" and "Avengers: Secret Wars." Feige was surrounded by rows of figures in green robes wearing Doom's trademark metal mask.

Joe Russo followed by stating, "As proof of the unlimited possibilities of the Marvel [Multiverse], we give you the one person who could play Victor von Doom."

At this point, a man in a green suit appeared, proceeded to the front of the stage, and removed his silver mask, revealing Downey Jr.'s face, prompting a loud roar from the audience.

"New mask, same task," Downey Jr. said, referring to the difference between Iron Man's faceplate and Doom's covering. He went on: "I tell ya, I like playing complicated characters."

However, many people online have voiced confusion regarding the casting choice.

Fans are curious about how the job would work, with some believing that Downey will play a variety of Doctor Doom who is actually an evil multiverse version of Stark, while others wonder if Downey will just portray the character with no connection to Iron Man. Dr. Doom wears a facial mask, therefore Downey's involvement is intended to be primarily vocal work.

According to a press release, "Avengers: Doomsday" will hit theaters in May 2026. Anthony and Joe Russo, who previously directed four Marvel films, will direct. The Russo brothers have also been recruited to direct "Avengers: Secret Wars," which will be released in May 2027.

Downey Jr. initially appeared as the comic book character Iron Man in the 2008 film of the same name, which spawned two sequels. He also starred in other Marvel franchise films, including 2018's "Infinity Wars" and "Spider-Man: Homecoming." His character was memorably killed off in the 2019 film "Endgame."