Marvel welcomes Robert Downey Jr back to the fold as Doctor Doom. Find out what fans can expect from his surprising new character.
After a five year absence, Robert Downey Jr is set to make his return to the Marvel superhero universe. However, this time around he won’t be reprising the iconic Iron Man character that propelled the franchise into blockbuster territory.
Dr Victor Von Doom, a notorious villain from the comic books that have given rise to a beloved film series, will be portrayed by the actor in his highly-anticipated comeback.
In May 2026, Downey Jr is set to be featured in the film Avengers: Doomsday. Moreover, a succeeding installment titled Secret Wars will also include him in its cast and hit screens one year later.
The Comic Con event in San Diego showcased the revelation of new stars joining the Marvel franchise.
Concealed behind Doctor Doom’s iconic mask and green cloak, Downey Jr made an appearance on stage before unveiling himself to fans.
He expressed to journalists that he enjoys portraying intricate individuals.
Playing a key role in the emergence of Marvel’s cinematic universe, the 59-year-old actor starred as Iron Man in its inaugural film back in 2008.
His most recent appearance in a Marvel film was in Avengers: Endgame, released in 2019.
Earlier this year, the Oppenheimer role played by the American actor earned him an Oscar award.
Read Also: BBNaija: 28 Housemates Chase N100m and SUV Prize
Before the return of Avengers to cinema screens, Marvel has scheduled the release of three additional films in 2025.
General Thaddeus “Thunderbolt” Ross will be portrayed by Harrison Ford in Captain America: Brave New World, replacing the deceased William Hurt.
Thunderbolts will feature Florence Pugh in a major role, and Pedro Pascal will make his introduction to the Marvel Universe with The Fantastic 4: First Steps.
The Marvel film series under Disney’s banner has amassed an impressive $30 billion (£23.3bn) in box office revenue, making it the first franchise to achieve this feat. However, profits have experienced a slowdown over recent years.
The recent debut of Deadpool & Wolverine featuring Ryan Reynolds and Hugh Jackman has presented a prospect for potential resurgence, earning an impressive $96 million on its initial day release – Friday.
Marvel parted ways with Jonathan Majors, who portrayed the villain Kang the Conqueror, after he was found guilty of assaulting his girlfriend last year.
