Robert Downey Jr. returns to marvel as Dr. Doom in the highly anticipated 'Avengers: Doomsday' announcement

Hollywood star Robert Downey Jr. is making a comeback to Marvel Studios as Dr. Doom. The Marvel Cinematic Universe has announced the newest addition to the Avengers series, 'Avengers: Doomsday.' Marvel Studios head Kevin Feige, alongside Downey Jr., shared the news at San Diego Comic-Con 2024.

Known for his iconic role as Iron Man in the MCU, Robert Downey Jr. took the stage at Hall H to reveal his new role as the Fantastic Four villain, Doctor Doom. This casting announcement generated significant excitement and intrigue, marking Downey Jr.'s shift from beloved hero to the complex and iconic character of Doctor Doom.

The director-duo will be helming the Avengers: Doomsday film. They were present in the Hall H when the news was announced. “If we’re going to bring Doctor Doom to the screen — he is one of the most complex characters, most entertaining characters in all of fiction,” Anthony Russo said, as reported by The Hollywood Reporter. “If we’re going to do this … then we are going to need the greatest actor in the world.”

“As proof of the unimaginable possibilities of the Marvel Universe, we give you the one person who could play Victor von Doom…” he added before Robert Downey Jr. took the stage to unveil himself as Doctor Doom.

In a video that quickly went viral from the Comic-Con event, Robert Downey Jr. was seen donning the iconic green robe and metal mask of Doctor Doom. As he removed the mask to announce his return, fans in the room erupted in screams of excitement. "New mask, same task," he quipped, confirming his comeback to the MCU. He added with a smile, "What can I say? I like playing complicated characters," playfully teasing the audience.

The Hollywood Reporter revealed that Robert Downey Jr. is set to return for two upcoming Avengers films. The Oppenheimer actor will reunite with the Russo Brothers for 'Avengers: Doomsday,' slated for a May 2026 release, and is expected to reprise his role in 'Avengers: Secret Wars,' which is aiming for a May 2027 release.

Downey Jr. and the Russo Brothers previously collaborated on 'Captain America: Civil War' (2016), 'Avengers: Infinity War' (2018), and 'Avengers: Endgame' (2019).

Robert Downey Jr. had announced his retirement from the MCU following 'Avengers: Endgame,' after portraying Iron Man for a decade. Tony Stark, also known as Iron Man, met his end in 'Avengers: Endgame,' providing a fitting conclusion to Downey Jr.'s tenure in the MCU.