AVENGERS: DOOMSDAY Writer on Bringing Robert Downey Jr. Back "Without Betraying" ENDGAME
The idea of Robert Downey Jr. returning to the Marvel Cinematic Universe was bound to stir up strong opinions. After all, Tony Stark’s sacrificial exit in Avengers: Endgame was a defining moment for the franchise, and it was one that fans weren’t eager to see undone.
So, when the news broke that Downey Jr. was returning to the MCU for Avengers: Doomsday, but not as Iron Man, reactions were… mixed.
This time around, Downey Jr. is stepping into the role of Doctor Doom, a casting choice that left many wondering if it would diminish the emotional weight of Stark’s farewell. And, as it turns out, even Doomsday writer Stephen McFeely shared that initial hesitation.
While speaking at The Electric State premiere, McFeely admitted that when directors Joe and Anthony Russo first pitched the idea, he wasn’t immediately on board.
"I was surprised by the news," he shared, "but soon set about figuring out a way to approach the story without betraying what I felt was a very lovely ending for him in Endgame."
Bringing RDJ back in a new role without undermining Stark’s legacy is going to be an interesting balancing act for the filmmakers.
While we don’t know for sure how this is all going to be handled, we have heard that Doom will not be a Stark variant, he will be an entirely different character, and other characters won’t recognize him as Stark. He will be Victor Von Doom.
I’m just not sure why they would cast Downey Jr. in the role, but the announcement did get a big “what the f*ck” spark from the fans.
It’s just a matter of time before we see what Marvel and The Russo Bros. have planned for this madness.