Robert Downey Jr. confirms return to Marvel as Doctor Doom, reveals how chat with Disney and Marvel bosses led to role

Robert Downey Jr. recently announced his return to the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) in the role of Victor Von Doom, also known as Doctor Doom. Speaking on The Hollywood Reporter’s Awards Chatter Podcast, Downey shared details about how Marvel Studios President Kevin Feige approached him for the role.

Casual Talk Leads to Major Role

Downey explained that a casual conversation with Feige led to his casting as Doctor Doom. Feige suggested the idea during their chat, prompting Downey to express concerns about meeting expectations and not repeating past success. Downey said, “He said, ‘It just keeps occurring to me if you were to come back …’” His wife, Susan Downey, questioned the nature of the comeback, asking, “Wait, wait. Come back as what?”

Consultation with Disney CEO

After discussing the role with Feige, Downey decided to consult Disney CEO Bob Iger. During their meeting, Iger expressed enthusiasm for the idea, saying, “I like it.” Downey recounted, “I was like, 'He likes it.' He [Iger] said, 'Come by the Imagineering Campus.'”

Excitement for New Projects

Downey and Feige visited the Imagineering Campus, where Downey was impressed by what he saw. He noted, “What is going on there right now is so beyond my expectation of what was possible,” as reported by The Hollywood Reporter.

Downey's Ongoing Connection with Marvel

Although Downey’s character, Tony Stark, concluded in Avengers: Endgame, he remained involved with Marvel. He continued to collaborate with director Jon Favreau and the Russo brothers, who are set to direct upcoming MCU films. Downey's return as Doctor Doom was officially announced at San Diego Comic Con, where he introduced his new character mask, stating, “New mask. Same task. Boy, I tell you, I like playing complicated characters.”