Robert Downey Jr. Open to Returning to Marvel: Iron Man Holds a Special Place in My Heart

Robert Downey Jr Would Happily Return to Marvel

Robert Downey Jr Neil Mockford/FilmMagic

Robert Downey Jr. is currently enjoying success in his career, especially since winning an Oscar. Despite this achievement, he is open to reprising his role as Iron Man.

In an interview with Esquire, the 59-year-old actor expressed his willingness to return as Tony Stark, even after the character's death in the 2019 film Avengers: Endgame.

"It's just a part of who I am," he explained. "That role was meant for me."

Back in 2008, when he landed the main role in Iron Man, the film that kickstarted the Marvel Cinematic Universe, Downey was in the process of rebuilding his career following a time in prison and battling addiction. Despite facing reluctance from insurance companies to provide coverage for him, he accepted a modest salary of $500,000 (considered low for a well-known actor) with the potential for additional profits if the movie proved to be a success.

Iron Man's success resulted in Robert Downey Jr. becoming one of the highest-paid actors in Hollywood. His role in nine blockbusters, including Endgame, earned him an estimated $75 million. Overall, Iron Man made over $585 million worldwide.

Robert Downey Jr Would Happily Return to Marvel

Robert Downey Jr Cover Images

Despite the recent underperformance of Marvel movies at the box office, Robert Downey Jr. has faith in Marvel Studios president Kevin Feige. Feige, known as the mastermind behind the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), is trusted to keep delivering epic blockbusters.

"And you know what? I always say, never underestimate Kevin Feige," the actor continued. "He's always ahead of the game. He always comes out on top."

Despite this, Feige has stated that reviving Tony Stark and exploring the aftermath of his death is not in the current plans.

"We are going to cherish that moment and leave it untouched," Feige shared with Vanity Fair in December 2023. He emphasized the hard work put in by everyone over the years to reach that point, expressing a desire to not erase it in any manner.

Although nothing is confirmed yet, Downey is not alone in being open to reprising his superhero role. Chris Evans, who portrayed Captain America from 2011 to 2019, mentioned that he would be willing to come back, but also admitted to having some reservations.

"Yeah, maybe. I'll never say never, just because it was such a wonderful experience," Evans shared with GQ in a September 2023 feature. "It's something that I am very proud of," the actor stated. "And like I said, sometimes I can't believe it even happened. And I wouldn't want the black eye if it felt like a cash grab or if it didn't live up to expectations or if it just felt like it wasn't connected to that original thing. So, no time soon."

Editor's P/S:

Robert Downey Jr.'s enduring affection for his iconic role as Iron Man is evident in his willingness to reprise it despite the character's demise in "Avengers: Endgame." His belief in Marvel Studios president Kevin Feige's ability to deliver exceptional blockbusters further highlights his confidence in the future of the Marvel Cinematic Universe. While Feige has indicated that reviving Tony Stark is not currently in the works, Downey's enthusiasm suggests that the door remains open for a potential return.

The article also explores the sentiments of Chris Evans, who portrayed Captain America. While expressing a willingness to reprise the role, Evans acknowledges the concerns surrounding potential cash grabs or a failure to meet expectations. His cautious approach reflects a desire to maintain the integrity of the character and the legacy of the Marvel Cinematic Universe.