How Robert Downey Jr. Is Preparing for His Marvel Comeback as Doctor Doom: 'It's a Very Intense Process'

Mar. 15, 2025

Photo:Michael Buckner/Variety via Getty

Michael Buckner/Variety via Getty

Robert Downey Jr.is beyond ready to be Doctor Doom.

Co-directors Joe and Anthony Russo shared how seriously the former Iron Man actor is taking his return to the Marvel Cinematic Universe forAvengers: Doomsdayin an interview withEntertainment Tonighton Tuesday, March 4,.

“It’s a very intense process developing the character,” Joe said of Downey, 59, taking on Victor von Doom, a.k.a. Doctor Doom. “He’s so immersed in it. He is so dialed in.”

According to the Russos, Downey has gone as far as “writing backstory [and] costume ideas” for the villain. “I think he just loves really rich, three-dimensional characters, and I think he sees a real opportunity here with that character,” Joe added.

Robert Downey Jr.Kevin Winter/GA/The Hollywood Reporter via Getty

Kevin Winter/GA/The Hollywood Reporter via Getty

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“New mask, same task,” Downey said as he emerged onto the panel’s stage at San Diego Convention Center’s Hall H among a group of actors wearing masks and robes at the time. “What did I tell ya? I like playing complicated characters.”

While Marvel’s Infinity Saga revolved around Thanos (Josh Brolin) as the main villain, the Multiverse Saga will debut Doctor Doom as the big bad inAvengers: Doomsday. Downey’s return to the franchise is entirely opposite of his previous Avengers character, Iron Man, who sacrificed himself to save the world inAvengers: Endgame.

Avengers: Doomsdayis in theaters May 1, 2026. The movie’s follow-up,Avengers: Secret Wars, will debut May 7, 2027.

source: people.com