russo brothers return to direct avengers doomsday, secret wars

In a surprise reveal at San Diego Comic-Con 2024, the Russo Brothers were announced to direct two new Avengers films, Avengers: Doomsday and Avengers: Secret Wars. Adding to the excitement, Robert Downey Jr. will return to the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), but this time as the infamous Dr. Doom. This marks a significant shift from his iconic role as Tony Stark/Iron Man. Stephen McFeely will pen the scripts for both movies, ensuring continuity as he previously worked on both the Captain America series and Endgame. Initially, Avengers: Doomsday was titled The Kang Dynasty. The title change followed the dismissal of Jonathan Majors, previously cast as Kang, due to his legal issues. Marvel's Hall H panel also featured other major announcements, including new footage of Captain America: Brave New World, the first official Thunderbolts clip, and a glimpse of The Fantastic Four.

Marvel changed the title from The Kang Dynasty to Avengers: Doomsday following the firing of Jonathan Majors, the actor originally cast as Kang the Conqueror, due to his conviction in a domestic violence trial.

Robert Downey Jr. is a significant figure in the MCU, having started the franchise with Iron Man in 2008. His portrayal of Tony Stark became a cornerstone of the MCU, culminating in a heroic sacrifice in Avengers: Endgame. The Russo Brothers directed both Infinity War and Endgame, which were monumental, setting box office records and solidifying their place in cinematic history. Their return for these two new Avengers films, coupled with Downey Jr.'s new role, heightens fan anticipation.