Robert Downey Jr. sent waves of shock and surprise as he set the San Diego Comic-Con alive with a sensational revelation. The Marvel star who epitomized Iron Man for 11 years, officially confirmed that he would be returning to the franchise to play the chilling antagonist Doctor Doom in the next two Avengers films.
While there is no doubt that Downey Jr. will bring nothing but his A-game to his newly minted role, the Oscar winner will still have to watch out for some stiff competition from other accomplished actors, judging from fans’ opinions. Marvel buffs are also equally excited about the casting of Ralph Ineson as Galactus and believe that he has what it takes to be one of the best villains in the MCU.
The MCU Stuns Fans With The News That Robert Downey Jr. Is Doctor Doom
Even since Robert Downey Jr.’s Tony Stark, aka Iron Man, said his emotional farewell in Avengers: Endgame, fans have been hoping against hope that the beloved Marvel superhero would somehow make a comeback in future films. At the San Diego Comic-Con, the Oppenheimer star answered every Marvel buff’s prayer, but in a sensational twist.
The celebrity in his inimitable style, revealed to an excited audience that he would be playing Doctor Doom in the next Avengers film titled Avengers: Doomsday (via Variety). The chilling antagonist who first appeared as the nemesis of The Fantastic Four, will also have a crucial part to play in Avengers: Secret Wars.
In one of the most unforgettable reveals, fans saw a figure dressed in a green suit wearing a Doctor Doom mask entering the stage. As they started to speculate who this could be, the mask was pulled back and Downey Jr. revealed himself with his arms open wide, leading to a wild eruption in the crowd.
The Judge actor has been vocal about his close association with the franchise and his desire to collaborate with Feige and the team once more (via Esquire). But fans automatically assumed this statement to refer to his iconic role as Iron Man.
Happily. It’s too integral a part of my DNA.That role chose me. And look, I always say, ‘Never, ever bet against Kevin Feige.’ It is a losing bet. He’s the house. He will always win.
As it turned out, the star was always going to be an integral feature in the franchise. But this time, he will regale audiences from the other side of justice. It now remains to be seen how fans can shake off his Iron Man image and accept him as Doctor Doom.
Ralph Ineson’s Galactus Could Give Doctor Doom a Run For His Money
While there is not an iota of doubt that Robert Downey Jr. will bring his unique personality to Doctor Doom, the superstar will need to be on his A-game if he has to overshadow another key antagonist. Ralph Ineson has officially been signed on to play Galactus in the upcoming The Fantastic Four (via Variety).
In the comics, the character is seen as a formal mortal who becomes a cosmic entity and consumes entire planets to sustain his life force. He is also known as the Devourer of Worlds for this intimidating ability and is one of the most feared beings in the cosmic world. He is seen as being susceptible only to the weapon called the Ultimate Nullifier, which could play a pivotal role in Avengers: Secret Wars.
This then means that Ineson and Downey Jr. would both be vying for attention in a star-studded affair. Fans are already backing The Witch actor and believe that he is the perfect choice to play the antagonist. In a post on X, netizens commented on a video of Ineson’s voice in The Green Knight. They were awestruck by his deep baritone that they felt, would work perfectly for Galactus as well.
Just a reminder, this is the voice of Galactus. pic.twitter.com/ATkZTouhO0
— Fantastic Four Updates (@F4Update) July 28, 2024
I recently watched it and it just now clicked he's who voices Green Knight. He's gonna kill it as Galactus
— TNX. (@tnovixvp) July 28, 2024
This is such a perfect casting
— Huncho (@ramunesauce) July 28, 2024
That’s good cast right there. Imagine hearing that voice and seeing this in theaters 🔥 pic.twitter.com/UQKrlw6TSK
— Elantonio92 (@elantonio1992) July 28, 2024
This is going to be fantastic!
— Justin Sam (@CptnDeadpoor21) July 28, 2024
Man this finna be a piece of cake for him
— 2KO (@SPIDEY1500) July 29, 2024
With this level of positivity surrounding his role, Ineson’s Galactus already looks to be gaining lots of hype. The battle between him and Downey Jr. will surely be one for the books to see who will ultimately come out on top.