Robert Downey Jr teases Iron Man x Doctor Doom; fans speculate dual role saying, 'Is Tony Stark coming back?'

Robert Downey Jr teases Iron Man x Doctor Doom

Robert Downey Jr has once again set the Marvel fandom buzzing, this time with a single image. The actor, who is officially confirmed to appear as Doctor Doom in Avengers: Doomsda, dropped a Thanksgiving-themed illustration on Instagram that has reignited theories about a possible return of Iron Man.

The artwork shows a comic-style Iron Man and Doctor Doom tugging at a wishbone, with only their armored shoulders and gloved hands visible. The intentionally vague design sent fans spiraling into speculation about what Downey is hinting at: a multiversal twist? A dual role? Or even the long-discussed resurrection of Tony Stark?

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With Downey already locked in as Victor Von Doom, the idea of him playing both characters has become an increasingly popular fan theory, especially with Avengers: Doomsday and Secret Wars expected to lean heavily into alternate timelines.

Comments on his post reflected the rising frenzy. “Is he hinting that Tony is coming back???” commented a fan. “Dual roles incoming?” guessed another. “This is the most Downey way to say everything and nothing,” added another fan.

This isn’t Downey’s first breadcrumb. Throughout the year, he’s shared a series of Doctor Doom–centric posts: a DOOM #1 (2024) comic on his desk (“Doom workstation essentials”), a Valentine’s Day photo of a Doom mask stuffed with chocolates, and a Mother’s Day post featuring Susan Downey styled like Sue Storm, alongside her mother knitting Doom’s iconic armor elements.

All of it suggests a strategic tease ahead of Marvel’s evolving promotional campaign for Avengers: Doomsday, directed by Anthony and Joe Russo. The ensemble cast features Chris Hemsworth, Vanessa Kirby, Joseph Quinn, and Ebon Moss-Bachrach, with the film slated for a December 18, 2026 release.

Also Read: Robert Downey Jr. makes villainous debut as Doctor Doom in Avengers: Doomsday promo reveal

Marvel is expected to drop the first trailer on December 19, 2025, according to Collider, attached to screenings of Avatar: Fire and Ash. However, the studio has kept production tightly sealed for no set leaks, no unofficial footage, and zero confirmations of any surprise cameos.

For now, Downey’s wishbone tease is more than enough to keep theories alive. Whether Tony Stark truly returns or the actor is simply indulging in Marvel mischief, one thing is clear: the road to Doomsday has officially begun.