Even though Marvel has introduced several new superheroes and villains in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, none of them can close to the stardom and magnetism of Robert Downey Jr. as Tony Stark/ Iron in the MCU. Ever since his debut in the franchise with his 2008 film, Iron Man, he laid the foundation of the first brick of the massive empire that he has helped in creating the multibillion-dollar superhero franchise.
However, Robert Downey Jr. decided to part ways with the franchise in Avengers: Endgame, ending his long and successful tenure. Ever since his departure, the MCU has struggled to maintain its quality and popularity as they had back in the day. In an attempt to save the franchise from dying, executives have suggested bringing back the actor and an insider states the Oppenheimer actor has agreed to return. Resulting in backlash from the fans.
Robert Downey Jr.’s Alleged Return To MCU Has Sent Fans Into a Frenzy
Robert Downey Jr. as Tony Stark/ Iron Man has been probably the most popular and fan-favorite character. His first portrayal of Tony Stark in the 2008 film was loved by the fans as he was charismatic and witty at the same time. Gradually, his popularity increased so much that he became the face of the franchise, accumulating insane amounts at the box office.
While the actor has retired from the role, Marvel executives have pitched an idea of bringing back the actor. However, an insider has tweeted that the actor has reportedly agreed to return to the franchise, reprising his role as Tony Stark/ Iron Man.
RDJ already agreed to come back pic.twitter.com/BzN89nfNHW
— MyTimeToShineHello (@MyTimeToShineH) November 1, 2023
However, fans were not pleased with the return of the star, as they bashed him on social media, sharing their opinions and how the actor went back on his word when he was asked about his condition to reprise his fan-favorite role of Iron Man.
Please no. Don’t ruin it
— Derpalicious (@CaraOverby06) November 2, 2023
Another fan questions the need to bring back the actor, when he is already 60 years old actor, and charges astronomical fees that take 1/4th of a film’s budget.
When he’s almost 60 years old? When he’s already said he’s tired of the role? When hiring him takes almost 1/4 of a film’s budget? When he’s getting established in more challenging roles like the one he had in Oppenheimer? It’s one thing if Marvel wants to hire him, it’s another…
— The Digital Questioner (@QuestionerNews) November 2, 2023
Another fan tweeted that everyone likes to be paid handsomely.
Who doesn’t love a good paycheck.
— DiegoPCMR 👾 (@diegopcmr) November 4, 2023
While fans were criticizing the decision some users mentioned that they would accept Robert Downey Jr.’s return only if he returned as the variant of Tony Stark, that is, Superior Iron Man, who is a more arrogant and evil version.
Please, 838-universe Superior iron man. Evil version. More arrogant.
— brgsjks (@brgsjks) November 1, 2023
Another fan states that Marvel Studios has run out of ideas, hence, they are bringing back the Sherlock Holmes actor so that they can make money out of him.
Yea Marvel is dead in the water at this point.
— FireLordAzula (@FireLordAzula25) November 2, 2023
While the idea of the actor’s return is having a mixed response among the fans, he has shared his only condition of returning to the franchise, and he said this long before the idea of his return was even pitched by the executive.
Robert Downey Jr.’s Only Condition To Return To The MCU
After Doney Jr. departed from the franchise in 2019, he appeared on the Joe Rogan Experience, where he talked about his experience of working with Marvel, and how he has developed a great relationship with the Marvel Studios. Despite the great relationship, he grew tired of working with them, and he mentioned how he was keen on working on other stuff as well, rather than merely playing the role of Tony Stark/ Iron Man.
“There would have to be a super compelling argument and a series of events that made it obvious. But the other thing is, I wanna do other stuff.”
Since then, he has gone on to portray the character of Lewis Strauss in Christopher Nolan’s Oppenheimer. He believed that playing the same character would ruin his acting skills, as he had been playing it for ages.
