Robert Downey Jr.'s return to the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) has ignited a frenzy among fans and former costars alike. The excitement kicked off on Saturday, July 27, at San Diego Comic-Con, where Downey, now 59, took the stage to announce that he’ll be stepping into the role of Doctor Doom in the highly anticipated Avengers: Doomsday and Avengers: Secret Wars. This news sent ripples through the Marvel community, sparking a wave of reactions from his former colleagues and Marvel stars.
The Big Reveal: Doctor Doom in the MCU
Downey’s announcement was nothing short of spectacular. Amid the buzz, Gwyneth Paltrow, 51, known for her role as Pepper Potts, couldn’t hide her surprise. Paltrow, who made her Marvel debut back in 2008 alongside Downey’s Tony Stark/Iron Man, took to Instagram to question the shift in Downey’s character arc. Her comment, "I don't get it, are you a baddie now?" captured the collective curiosity surrounding Downey’s new role. The evolution of his character from Iron Man’s love interest to Doctor Doom’s foil has certainly intrigued many.
A Universe of Reactions
The excitement didn’t stop there. Mark Ruffalo, 56, who played Bruce Banner/The Hulk, also chimed in. On Downey’s Instagram post, which featured a video of his Comic-Con reveal and a close-up of a new, mysterious mask, Ruffalo playfully commented, "Hey Brat, green suits you." This playful jab not only showcased the camaraderie between the Avengers cast but also hinted at the intriguing possibility of seeing Ruffalo and Downey in new and unexpected dynamics.
Jeremy Renner, 53, who portrayed Hawkeye in the Avengers franchise, expressed his enthusiasm as well. Renner congratulated the Russo brothers, Anthony and Joe Russo, who are set to direct the upcoming Avengers films. His comment, "Congrats gentlemen!!! We've missed you," was a nod to both the directors and the excitement surrounding Downey’s return. Renner’s post was accompanied by a series of photos from Comic-Con, adding to the overall buzz.
Fan and Celebrity Reactions
The excitement wasn’t confined to Marvel veterans. Frank Grillo, known for his role as Brock Rumlow, also weighed in with a comment on the Russo brothers' post: "They need you guys." His endorsement highlighted the widespread anticipation and support for the upcoming Avengers films.
Celebrity reactions continued to roll in. Hannah Waddingham, famous for her role in Ted Lasso, expressed her awe with the comment, "Now that is f-ing cool!" Garrett Hedland joined in with three fire emojis, clearly fired up by the announcement. Ryan Reynolds, who portrays Deadpool, also showed his support by liking both Downey’s and the Russo brothers’ Instagram posts. Reynolds’ endorsement was a nod to the interconnected nature of the MCU and the excitement surrounding its future.
The Russos' Take
The Russo brothers, who are returning to helm the next Avengers saga, added their own touch to the excitement. Their comment on Downey’s post, "We've always said green is your color…" further fueled speculation and enthusiasm about Downey’s new role. The playful remark suggested that Downey’s transition from hero to villain might be more seamless than expected.
Florence Pugh’s Take
Florence Pugh, who joined the MCU in 2021 as Yelena Belova in Black Widow, also weighed in on the Comic-Con buzz. Speaking to Variety, Pugh, 28, reflected on the frenzy surrounding Downey’s announcement. "I bet it went insane in there," she remarked, highlighting the palpable excitement in the Comic-Con atmosphere.
Looking Back and Ahead
Robert Downey Jr. has been a cornerstone of the MCU, first gracing the screen as Tony Stark/Iron Man in 2008. His portrayal of Stark was integral to the early success of the MCU, and he went on to reprise the role in two more solo films and several Avengers team-ups. The character’s journey reached a poignant conclusion in Avengers: Endgame, where Stark was one of the few original heroes who met his end in the aftermath of Thanos' infamous snap.
As Downey prepares to take on the role of Doctor Doom, fans and colleagues alike are eager to see how this new chapter unfolds. The anticipation surrounding Avengers: Doomsday and Avengers: Secret Wars is palpable, and Downey’s involvement only adds to the excitement. The MCU continues to evolve, and Downey’s return promises to bring fresh dynamics and thrilling new storylines to the beloved franchise.
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