Robert Downey Jr. is set to portray Doctor Doom in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), marking a significant move for the actor who first gained superhero fame as Iron Man. This revelation, made at San Diego Comic-Con 2024, has fans excitedly revisiting Downey's near-casting as the same character in 2005's Fantastic Four. An old video clip featuring Kevin Feige and Jon Favreau highlighted this near-casting, where Downey was considered for the role of Victor von Doom, which ultimately went to Julian McMahon. Marvel enthusiasts are now eagerly awaiting Downey's portrayal in Avengers: Doomsday, slated for a May 2026 release, with the Russo Brothers directing both this film and its 2027 sequel, Avengers: Secret Wars.

Why was Robert Downey Jr. almost cast as Doctor Doom in 2005?n

Robert Downey Jr. was nearly cast as Doctor Doom in 2005's Fantastic Four due to his recognizable talent and previous interactions with Marvel creatives. Despite eventually losing the role to Julian McMahon, Downey's performance during the auditions left a strong impression.

Doctor Doom, also known as Victor von Doom, is one of Marvel Comics' most complex and powerful villains, first appearing in "Fantastic Four" #5 in 1962. His character is a genius with a tragic backstory, often challenging the Fantastic Four and other superheroes with his intellect and mastery of both science and sorcery. Downey's unexpected return as the character brings a fresh twist to the villain's storied history in the MCU.