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Marvel Brings Back Robert Downey Jr., But This Time He’s No Superhero

Iron Man might be dead, but the actor who portrayed him is alive and well. Marvel Brings Back Robert Downey Jr., But This Time He’s No Superhero Giphy

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There’s been no shortage of commentary in recent years about how the superhero genre has become oversaturated with sequels and derivative films. But there are still several forthcoming movies that are sparking anticipation among audiences — including one from Marvel Studios co-starring an actor that has become a fan favorite.

Downey’s Doomsday

Avengers aficionados far and wide quickly began to resonate with Robert Downey Jr.’s portrayal of Iron Man, a character the actor played in nine films concluding with the character’s death in 2019’s “Avengers: Endgame.”

But that doesn’t mean Marvel is finished tapping into Downey’s unique acting chops. He showed up at San Diego Comic-Con recently for a surprise appearance, revealing his identity from behind a Doctor Doom mask to the delight of those in the crowd.

Directors Joe and Anthony Russo will be returning for additional films in the Avengers franchise, including one in which Downey will take on the role of the supervillain. “Avengers: Doomsday” is expected to debut in theaters sometime in 2026.

He wasn’t the only surprise guest at the convention, though. Harrison Ford was also among the celebrities who made a splash, and Marvel Studios President Kevin Feige confirmed that the “Indiana Jones” star would have a role in the forthcoming “Captain America” movie.

Keep on cashing in

Even though audiences might have grown a bit weary after a steady stream of superhero movies in recent years, it doesn’t appear to have taken a toll on Marvel Studios’ profitability.

The highly anticipated “Deadpool & Wolverine” recently hit theaters and boosted the total amount of box office revenue the studio has amassed. Feige said that the latest total has topped $30 billion.

Bringing a beloved actor like Downey back to the big screen (even as a villain) is likely to provide another big injection of cash.

Chris Agee
Chris Agee July 29th, 2024
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