Summary:
- Downey Jr. is open to returning as Tony Stark in the MCU, with potential options including a multiverse variant or time travel.
- Marvel Studios may bring him back in some capacity for a cameo in The Multiverse Saga’s conclusion.
In a recent Esquire cover story, Robert Downey Jr. expressed his willingness to reprise his role as Tony Stark/Iron Man in the MCU, saying, “It’s too integral a part of my DNA.”
Fresh from his Oscar win for “Oppenheimer,” Downey discussed the possibility of returning, affirming, “Happily. That role chose me.”
He also praised Marvel Studios president Kevin Feige, comparing him to a casino: “Never, ever bet against Kevin Feige. He’s the house. He will always win.”
It’s no surprise that Downey would be eager to return to the franchise he helped launch.
Since starring in the first Marvel movie, Iron Man, in 2008, the MCU has become one of the biggest entertainment franchises worldwide, with over 33 films and $32 billion in global box office revenue.
With recent MCU films facing mixed reviews and box office performance, like Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania and The Marvels, it’s understandable that Marvel would seek ways to bring back Downey and his iconic character, Tony Stark.
It could be tough to find a good reason for Downey’s comeback. After starring in 10 Marvel movies, he said goodbye to the MCU in 2019’s Avengers: Endgame, where his character Tony Stark sacrificed himself.
Feige stressed the importance of that moment, saying, “We are going to keep that moment and not touch that moment again.” He added, “We all worked very hard for many years to get to that, and we would never want to magically undo it in any way.” (via Vanity Fair in December)
Possible Ways To Return For Robert Downey Jr. As Iron Man In The Mcu
After Iron Man’s conclusive exit in Avengers: Endgame, bringing back Robert Downey Jr. would require creative storytelling. One option is to introduce a new version of Tony Stark from a different universe, offering a fresh take on the character.
Another possibility is to use time travel cautiously to revisit Iron Man’s past without undermining his sacrifice. However, given the MCU’s recent focus, tapping into the multiverse might be a more feasible approach for Downey Jr.’s return.
Ultimately, it’s likely that Kevin Feige will figure out a way to bring Downey Jr. back as Iron Man in the later stages of The Multiverse Saga. With rumors swirling about Avengers: Secret Wars potentially resetting the MCU, this saga could be Downey Jr.’s last chance to return to the role before any potential recasting.
Marvel Studios’ future plans will reveal how they decide to bring Downey Jr. back as Iron Man in the MCU.
