Filming for Captain America: Brave New World is currently taking place in Washington DC, with sightings of Robert Downey Jr. on set.
Originally known as Captain America: New World Order, Brave New World showcases the character Sam Wilson, portrayed by Anthony Mackie, as he embraces the role of Captain America. The movie serves as a continuation of the Disney Plus series Falcon and The Winter Soldier. In Captain America 4, Harrison Ford will step into the shoes of General Ross following the departure of William Hurt, who previously portrayed the character in earlier films.
Downey Jr. was reportedly spotted on the set of Captain America 4. This information was leaked through a LinkedIn post by Nawar Shora, a DC-based author. Shora claims to have spoken to one of the security personnel who informed him about Downey Jr.'s presence on set. "They are currently shooting Captain America 4 in the vicinity of the White House and close to my office. While I was on a quick errand walk, I noticed the presence of numerous lights and equipment. I approached one of the security staff to inquire about it," wrote Shora. "The security staff member was extremely friendly and talkative. He revealed to me (SPOILER) that Robert Downey Jr. was present on the set last night, and they were seen driving various luxury cars."
Downey Jr. currently stars in a streaming series on Max called Downey's Dream Cars. In this show, the actor collaborates with a team of experts to transform his classic car collection into more environmentally friendly vehicles. Despite the premiere of Downey's Dream Cars coinciding with the production of Captain America 4, it is unclear how Downey Jr. will make a return in the newest Captain America movie.
Considering the emotional conclusion of Tony Stark's character in Avengers: Endgame, it is unlikely that Marvel Studios will revive Downey Jr.'s Tony Stark. Therefore, if he does appear in the film, it can be assumed that he will not portray the MCU's Tony Stark, unless it is through a flashback. Given the current multiversal narrative in the MCU, he might instead play a variant of Tony Stark or a different character altogether.
However, if this leak proves to be authentic and Robert Downey Jr. indeed made an appearance on the set, it does not necessarily imply that he will be featured in the movie. Despite the fact that the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) is currently exploring the concept of a multiverse, there have been no indications that Captain America: Brave New World is a multiverse-themed film. It would be unusual for Downey Jr. to return to this particular movie when there are more appealing options available. It is possible that he simply wanted to visit the set, spend time with some of his friends who are part of the cast, and have some fun driving cars.
The release date for Captain America: Brave New World in theaters is slated for July 26, 2024.
Source: Nawar Shora/LinkedIn