In a jaw-dropping moment at Saturday's San Diego Comic-Con Hall H panel, Robert Downey Jr announced his return to the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), not as his famed character Iron Man, but as one of the most iconic villains, Doctor Doom. The panel was filled with hooded figures donning masks reminiscent of the notorious comic book villain, Victor Von Doom , known for his mastery of both sorcery and science. Amidst this mysterious setup, Downey Jr.
dramatically took off his mask, much to the astonishment and excitement of the fans. "New mask. Same task.
What'd I tell you? I like playing complicated characters," he said, as the crowd erupted in chants of his name. The Russo Brothers expressed their enthusiasm for Downey Jr.'s return and emphasized that while he may have a "new mask," the goal remains the same for him, the Marvel team, and everyone involved: to "create the greatest possible experience" for moviegoers.
Fans left the panel buzzing with anticipation for the next phase of the MCU, eagerly awaiting the epic battles and complex characters that lie ahead. Taking to Twitter, fans shared their excitement to see RDJ back in action. "Welcome back, legend" wrote a fan, while another shared their shock over the actor turning a dake darker for his return and quoted a famous 'Batman' dialogue by Christian Bale , "You either die a hero, or live long enough to see yourself become the villain.
" Interestingly, Downey Jr. auditioned to play Doctor Doom in 20th Century Fox's ' Fa.