**Robert Downey Jr. Agreed To Star In Marvel’s Avengers: Doomsday Under One Condition**
When Marvel declared the return of Robert Downey Jr. and the Russo brothers to the MCU, some dedicated Avengers’ enthusiasts were likely not taken aback. Speculations had already hinted that RDJ and the Russos would eventually rejoin for the concluding two “Avengers” ventures in the “Multiverse Saga.” The only twist was the shift in role for the cherished MCU actor. Rather than portraying Iron Man, RDJ would assume the role of Doctor Doom, a notorious antagonist the MCU had yet to showcase. Iron Man perished at the conclusion of “Avengers: Endgame” in 2019, over a decade after the original “Iron Man” triumph that initiated the MCU. Despite the seemingly irreversible death, MCU aficionados anticipated Marvel would devise a method to revive Tony Stark and reintegrate him, particularly given Marvel’s introduction of the multiverse in the MCU narrative, an approach that enables the studio to execute its wishes. Marvel supporters also presumed RDJ’s comeback would be a highly secured secret. After all, the actor repeatedly refuted rumors about reprising his legendary Iron Man role.
Regarding the Russo brothers, their comeback appeared sensible considering their previously affirmed interest in the “Avengers: Secret Wars” plot. An unforeseen off-screen incident, combined with the worse-than-expected box-office results from the MCU in recent years, compelled Marvel to reconsider the conclusion of the “Multiverse Saga.” Originally, Kang (Jonathan Majors) was slated to be the central villain in the forthcoming “Avengers” films. “Doomsday” was referred to as “The Kang Dynasty” until last year. However, Majors was dismissed following his legal issues.
It appears that Robert Downey Jr. is pivotal to the Russo brothers’ return to the MCU. A source acquainted with his lucrative arrangement with Marvel informed Variety in July 2024 that “[the Russos] were the only ones he would work with.”
**Robert Downey Jr.’s big payday**
Marvel’s major marketing initiative for “Avengers: Doomsday” kicks off this week, although the eagerly awaited crossover is one year away. Marvel opted to leverage “Avatar: Fire and Ash” to execute an unconventional publicity stunt for the superhero film. Each week, a new “Avengers: Doomsday” teaser will air before “Avatar 3,” providing glimpses of some of the film’s key characters. The initial clips have already surfaced online, generating considerable anticipation among fans for the upcoming “Avengers” installment.
That’s the type of promotion Marvel requires, even though “Doomsday” will debut on December 18, 2026, and films with “Avengers” in the title typically promote themselves. “Doomsday” is expected to easily surpass $1 billion at the box office, but that might not satisfy Marvel, especially in light of the rumored specifics regarding Robert Downey Jr.’s new agreement. The involvement of the Russos may have been a must-have for the Oscar-winning actor, but his contract includes additional perks, such as a private jet and security.
The actor has already earned between $500 million and $600 million for his roles as Tony Stark/Iron Man in the MCU, incorporating earlier “Iron Man,” “Avengers,” and other crossover appearances. Downey Jr.’s iconic character enabled Marvel to gain from a continually growing universe of interconnected superhero narratives. His new deal is set to be exceedingly rewarding, with Downey Jr. anticipated to receive “significantly more” than $80 million for “Doomsday” and “Secret Wars.” Recent reports suggest the amount is nearing $100 million. The Russo brothers are reportedly set to receive $80 million for the two films, which excludes back-end earnings and performance bonuses linked to reaching $750 million and $1 billion at the box office.
**When will we see Robert Downey Jr.’s Doctor Doom?**
While the aforementioned figures are unconfirmed, they provide insight into why Marvel’s “Doomsday” promotion begins with “Avatar: Fire and Ash.” Marvel needs both “Doomsday” and “Secret Wars” to achieve exceptional success at the box office. Aside from RDJ and the Russos, the upcoming “Avengers” films will feature numerous renowned actors, who have previously appeared in most, if not all, “Avengers” installments. In March, Marvel hosted an “Avengers: Doomsday” livestream event on YouTube where it revealed 27 actor names, including RDJ. The actor was the sole cast member featured in that clip. The Russo brothers have previously delivered successful films. Their earlier “Avengers” installments grossed over $4.85 billion at the box office, a record Marvel will undoubtedly seek to surpass.
All this signifies that we will soon witness Robert Downey Jr. as Doctor Doom. The character appeared
