Robert Downey Jr.’s MCU Return as Doctor Doom: Reflecting on Shocking San Diego Comic-Con Reveal

After a surprising conversation with Marvel Studios’ Kevin Feige, Downey hints at reprising a new and complex role in the Marvel Cinematic Universe

Around a year ago, Robert Downey Jr. and his wife, Susan Downey, sat down for a chat with Marvel Studios chief Kevin Feige. While it wasn’t unusual for Downey and Feige to keep in touch after his departure from the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) following Avengers: Endgame, the conversation took an unexpected twist when Feige floated the idea of Downey returning to the MCU—even though Tony Stark, his iconic character, had died.

“He said, ‘It just keeps occurring to me, if you were to come back…’” Downey revealed in a recent episode of The Hollywood Reporter’s Awards Chatter podcast. Susan Downey interjected, asking, “Wait, wait. Come back as what?”

The discussion then pivoted to the challenges of meeting fan expectations and the importance of moving forward creatively without retracing old ground. Feige suggested a bold idea—introducing Downey as Victor Von Doom, one of Marvel’s most complex villains. Downey delved into researching the character, intrigued by the possibility. Later, Feige doubled down, saying, “Let’s get Victor Von Doom right.”

As Downey was already planning to meet Disney CEO Bob Iger about contributing to the company’s theme parks and location-based entertainment, the topic of Doctor Doom quickly came up during their meeting. Iger, already aware of the idea, responded enthusiastically, “I like it,” and arranged for Downey and Feige to visit Disney’s Imagineering Campus to explore the latest innovations.

“You want to talk about two guys who are not easily impressed, let alone at the same time,” Downey remarked. “What’s happening there right now is beyond my expectations.”

Since leaving the MCU, Downey has stayed close with Avengers directors Joe and Anthony Russo, as well as Iron Man director Jon Favreau. During San Diego Comic-Con in July, Feige confirmed that the Russo brothers would direct two upcoming films: Avengers: Doomsday in 2026 and Avengers: Secret Wars in 2027.

In one of the most jaw-dropping moments in Comic-Con history, a group of men dressed as Doctor Doom stormed the stage. One of them stepped forward, removed his mask, and revealed himself as Downey. The crowd erupted in astonishment.

“New mask. Same task,” Downey quipped to the audience. “I really enjoy playing complicated characters.”