Doomsday’ directors reveal Robert Downey Jr.’s dedication towards Doctor Doom

The creators revealed Robert Downey Jr.’s dedication to Doctor Doom.
He is making a dramatic return to the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU).
They revealed Downey’s deep commitment to the role.

Joe and Anthony Russo, the directors of Avengers: Doomsday, revealed the dedication of Robert Downey Jr. towards his role as Doctor Doom.

Robert Downey Jr. is making a dramatic return to the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), but not as Iron Man. The Oscar-winning actor is set to portray the legendary villain Doctor Doom in Avengers: Doomsday, marking a stunning shift from hero to antagonist.

In an exclusive interview with Entertainment Tonight, directors Joe and Anthony Russo revealed Downey’s deep commitment to the role. “He is so immersed in it. He is so dialed in,” Joe Russo said. “He’s writing backstory, costume ideas… We were just on the phone with him this morning before we got here talking about it. He just loves really rich three-dimensional characters. He sees a real opportunity here with the character.”

The revelation of Downey’s return as Doom stunned fans at Comic-Con last year. Having played Iron Man for over a decade in 10 Marvel films before his emotional exit in Avengers: Endgame, few expected his comeback—especially in a villainous role.

Avengers: Doomsday is slated for a May 2026 release, with filming set to begin soon. The Russo Brothers are also directing Avengers: Secret Wars in 2027, promising an action-packed new era for the MCU.