We can’t imagine anyone but Robert Downey Jr for the role of Iron Man in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. He is globally recognized for kicking off the MCU journey and pushing to greater heights that we now see today. However, many know by now that his superhero life came after his addiction journey which nearly jeopardized his career.
In a recent interview, former President of Marvel Studios, David Maisel opened up about how his idea of hiring the actor was considered “crazy.” However, his decision was proven to be the best one later on when the actor won hearts globally with his charm.
Robert Downey Jr.’s Hiring for Iron Man Was Not Welcoming!
Also Read: MCU’s Iron Man, Robert Downey Jr Was Jealous of His Avengers: Endgame Co-star Benedict Cumberbatch
In a recent interview with The New Yorker, former MCU boss, David Maisel opened up about how he was humiliated on casting Robert Downey Jr, an addict at the time with the franchise’s future.
“My board thought I was crazy to put the future of the company in the hands of an addict.”
He shared that he gave his best shot to help them in comprehending the positive trait of the actor.
“I helped them understand how great he was for the role. We all had confidence that he was clean and would stay clean.”
Before getting recognized as an MCU star, Downey Jr. had an infamous bad-boy reputation. He was even arrested back in 1996 for possession of heroin, cocaine, and an unloaded gun. After the incident, his career faced a major slump despite his rehab.
The former executive knew that the Iron Man character had potential in the long run which proved to be right. Despite the initial hesitation of the board members regarding the hiring of the latter for the iconic role, the franchise went ahead with him. And the result is now in front of us!
Tom Cruise Was Considered for The Iron Man Role
Tom Cruise is globally recognized as an action star however, he passed down to be MCU’s superhero when he was offered to play Iron Man. He once discussed why he refused to join the franchise.
“[Marvel Studios] came to me at a certain time and, when I do something, I wanna do it right. If I commit to something, it has to be done in a way that I know it’s gonna be something special.”
The actor felt that it was going to work for him which is why he passed on the offer. However, he praised the Oppenheimer star for his superhero portrayal.
“I love Robert Downey Jr. I can’t imagine anyone else in that role and I think it’s perfect for him.”
He gloriously took off his suit in Avengers: Endgame when the Avengers fought Thanos. It grossed $2.798 billion worldwide.
All the MCU films are available on Disney+.
Source: The New Yorker
