Iron Man: The Dark Side of a Hero

Neglected Pepper Potts

In the early stages of the MCU, Tony Stark consistently undervalued the important role of Pepper Potts in his life, neglecting and mistreating her despite their romantic attraction.

Gwyneth Paltrow as Pepper Potts looking disappointed in Iron Man

Stark's indifference and standoffish behavior towards Potts persisted even after they began their relationship, highlighting his pattern of neglect in the MCU's early movies.

It took multiple movies for Stark to correct his behavior, but the damage had already been done, portraying a dark side of his character.

Ignored Aldrich Killian

Stark's callousness towards the promising science of Aldrich Killian led to the creation of the villain in Iron Man 3, setting off a chain of events that put many lives in danger.

Robert Downey Jr. as Tony Stark speaking to Guy Pearce's Aldrich Killian in Iron Man 3 (2013)

This act of neglect and dismissal had far-reaching consequences, showcasing Stark's lack of consideration for the potential outcomes of his actions.

Refused To Trust Captain America About Bucky

Stark's refusal to believe Captain America's warnings about Bucky's innocence in Civil War was a rash decision that almost enabled a villain's plan to succeed.

Tony Stark glaring at Steve Rogers in Capatain America Civil War

This moment highlighted Stark's arrogance and pettiness, as he dismissed the concerns of a trusted ally without considering the implications of his actions.

Called Out The Mandarin

In a moment of sheer arrogance, Stark's emotional reaction led him to put innocent lives in danger by publicly calling out the terrorist villain, resulting in a near-fatal outcome for himself and Pepper Potts.

Robert Downey Jr. as Tony Stark in Iron Man 3 giving the Mandarin his address

This impulsive decision showcased Stark's inability to control his emotions and consider the potential consequences of his actions, reflecting a dangerous flaw in his character.

Turned His Fellow Avengers Into Fugitives

Stark's controversial support for the Sokovia Accords turned his fellow Avengers into fugitives, portraying a cold-hearted and morally dubious decision that went against the history and trust shared among the heroes.

The Sokovia Accords in Captain America: CIvil War (2016)

This divisive stance showcased Stark's willingness to prioritize regulation over loyalty, leading to a fracture in the superhero community and tarnishing his reputation as a hero.

Iron Man’s Drunken Birthday Party

Stark's irresponsible and reckless behavior at his drunken birthday party, where he endangered the lives of his guests by using his Iron Man suit as a party trick, demonstrated his lack of control and disregard for his responsibilities as a hero.

Robert Downey Jr. as Tony Stark/Iron Man in Iron Man 2 drunk at his birthday party

This self-destructive act highlighted Stark's flawed and impulsive nature, shedding light on the darker aspects of his character during a vulnerable phase.

Recruited A Teenager Into The Avengers

Stark's decision to recruit a 15-year-old Peter Parker into the Avengers put the minor in life-threatening danger, showcasing his disregard for the well-being of a child and the potential consequences of involving a young hero in dangerous situations.

Tom Holland's Spider-Man Walking with Iron Man's Team in Captain America: Civil War

This irresponsible act highlighted Stark's lack of judgment and consideration for the safety of others, raising questions about his moral compass as a mentor and leader.

Stark Built His Fortune On War

Stark's wealth, derived from creating weaponry, reflects a shady and morally questionable foundation, as it essentially profited from warmongering and the resulting loss of countless lives.

Robert Downey Jr. as Tony Stark during weapons demo in Iron Man (2008)

This dark origin of his fortune raises ethical concerns about Stark's past and the impact of his actions on the world, painting a complex picture of his character.

Created Ultron

Stark's creation of Ultron, an artificial intelligence that posed a significant threat to humanity, was a catastrophic and unintentional act that resulted in dire consequences for the world.

Tony Stark (Robert Downey Jr) and Bruce Banner (Mark Ruffalo) creating Ultron in Age of Ultron

This pivotal moment highlighted Stark's hubris and the dangerous implications of his unchecked innovation, emphasizing the destructive potential of his actions.