Robert Downey Jr. was reportedly approached to play Dr. Doom in Fantastic Four of 2005 – watch the video online to find out more
The San Diego Comic-Con MCU panel surprised fans with the news that Robert Downey Jr. will be returning to the Marvel franchise in a new role as Dr. Doom, the supervillain from the comics. This announcement shocked fans, especially considering rumors of Downey Jr.’s audition for the same role back in 2005.
Reports indicate that the Oscar-winning actor had auditioned for the role of Dr. Doom in The Fantastic Four, with a screen test for the MCU. A video surfaced showing Kevin Feige and Jon Favreau discussing Marvel comic book trivia, with Favreau mentioning seeing Downey Jr. in the audition for the villainous character.
In 2005, Julian MacMahon portrayed Dr. Doom, missing out on the opportunity that could have been Downey Jr.’s. However, the actor went on to play a significant role in the MCU as Iron Man and even donned the suit of the villain in Avengers: Doomsday and Secret Wars.
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Favreau mentioned that Downey Jr. was a known entity during the 2005 audition for Dr. Doom, and also recalled casting the actor for the role of Iron Man. The return of the Russo Brothers as directors for the upcoming Avengers film was also announced at the Marvel panel.
While fans are wondering how Downey Jr. will fit into the role of Dr. Doom after years of playing Iron Man, theories suggest that the villainous character may be a variant of Tony Stark from a parallel universe. Audiences eagerly anticipate seeing Robert Downey Jr. back on screen with the Marvel Cinematic Universe.
Avengers: Doomsday and Avengers: Secret Wars are set to debut in theaters in May 2026 and May 2027, respectively.
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