Iron Man ‘Robert Downey Jr.’ Is All Set To Make a Comeback to the Marvel Cinematic Universe as ‘Doctor Doom’

Robert Downey Jr. surprised fans at Saturday’s San Diego Comic-Con Hall H panel by taking off his mask to reveal he’ll be returning to the Marvel franchise as the iconic villain Doctor Doom. 

The panel was filled with hooded figures wearing masks that evoked the iconic comic book villain known for his prowess in both sorcery and science until Downey Jr. revealed himself. 

“New mask, same task,” Downey Jr. said. “What did I tell ya? I like playing complicated characters.” 

The Oscar-winner had previously expressed his willingness to return to the MCU, saying he’d “happily” come back because the MCU “is too integral a part of my DNA.” 

Downey Jr. first played Iron Man in the 2008 film and went on to star in two sequels and several other Marvel movies, including 2018’s Infinity War and Spider-Man: Homecoming, and his character was notably killed off in 2019’s Endgame. 

The Russo Brothers, returning to direct both Avengers: Doomsday and Avengers: Secret Wars, believe that even though Downey Jr. has a "new mask," he and the rest of the Marvel team share the same goal: to "create the greatest possible experience" for moviegoers. 

“Avengers: Doomsday” is set to hit theaters in May 2026, according to a press release. Anthony and Joe Russo, who have previously directed four Marvel movies, will direct. The Russo brothers are also tapped to direct “Avengers: Secret Wars,” coming May 2027. 

Joe Russo told the Hall H audience that bringing Downey Jr. back into the Marvel fold demonstrates the “unimaginable possibilities” of the Marvel Multiverse, adding that he’s “the one person who could play Victor Von Doom.” 

Marvel is keeping details under wraps, so many questions remain about how they’ll balance Downey’s dual role. But with the Marvel Multiverse being so vast, there are endless possibilities. 

“Avengers: Doomsday” will replace the previously announced “Avengers: The Kang Dynasty” in the MCU release calendar.