Despite several pushbacks in the post-Endgame years, the Marvel Cinematic Universe has managed to keep itself relevant thanks to rumors, speculations, and hope among ardent fans who believe the superhero franchise will one day make a smashing return. Marvel Comics has amassed a massive fan following, which includes the likes of the Oscar-winning star Matthew McConaughey.
Just like most starry-eyed kids, McConaughey had spent a lot of his time during his early years reading comics, Marvel’s Hulk being his favorite character. And there’s a chance he might actually get to play one of his variants on-screen.
Matthew McConaughey is the perfect choice for one Hulk variant
The MCU has some of the biggest acting names in its multiversal roster, but surprisingly, Matthew McConaughey isn’t one of them despite being a huge Marvel fan. And it’s not like he wasn’t approached for a role; he was offered a role in Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2 but he turned it down back then.
However, the role he was actually vying for was MCU’s Hulk, which eventually went to Mark Ruffalo. And over the years, he has reiterated the fact that he badly wanted to play the Green Goliath.
Ever since MCU’s entry into the multiverse saga, the doors have once again opened for him to play a Hulk; a variant who is often considered one of the most powerful versions of him in comic book history.
Avenger: Secret Wars is rumored to include heroes and villains from several dimensions and timelines, and Maestro, an evil Hulk variant with genius-level intellect, is part of the comic book series the movie takes its name from. And by the looks of it, the Dallas Buyers Club star is the perfect match for the role, bringing both his, and fans’ dreams to reality.
Robert Downey Jr. might return to MCU as a villain
Industry insider Jeff Sneider has issued a new newsletter for Marvel enthusiasts, disclosing rumors that Robert Downey Jr. may reprise his role in an upcoming Avengers movie. The twist? He would portray a Stark Variant who eventually becomes Doctor Victor Von Doom.
The actor had once auditioned for a role in the 2005 film Fantastic Four, vying for a part that was ultimately brought to fruition by Julian McMahon. This occurred prior to his iconic portrayal of Iron Man.
During an interview with Marvel Entertainment, director Jon Favreau shared insights with Marvel head Kevin Feige:
I remember you had all met with [Downey] already for like Doctor Doom or something on another project. I think he had come through on maybe Fantastic Four, so everybody sort of knew who he was.
The notion of Downey Jr. portraying Doctor Doom instead of Iron Man is quite astonishing, and the idea of him returning to the MCU as the archenemy of the Fantastic Four is an even more extraordinary speculation.
Avengers: Secret Wars is expected to arrive in theaters on May 7, 2027.
