In a recent interview, Robert Downey Jr. responded to the possibility of reprising his role in Iron Man 4 by cleverly diverting the question and alluding to the initial casting choice for Iron Man. Downey, who portrayed the iconic character for over a decade in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, bid farewell to the role in Avengers: Endgame in 2019. Despite his departure, fans have been eagerly hoping for his return in the ongoing Multiverse Saga. During a conversation with Extra TV, the actor skillfully avoids discussing the likelihood of his participation in Iron Man 4 and instead makes a knowing reference to another renowned actor. To see his response, watch the clip below.
RDJ: You know, I think if we're gonna go back and do another Iron Man, we gotta do something different. We can't just keep rehashing the same storylines. I mean, how many times can Tony Stark save the world, right? We need to find a fresh angle, something that will surprise the audience and keep things exciting. So, yeah, if we can come up with a really great idea, I'd be open to it. But it's gotta be something new and innovative.
RDJ: Does he [Tom Cruise] wanna do that? Tom don’t take it!
Can Iron Man 4 Still Happen With RDJ’s Tony Stark
Tony Stark's demise in Avengers: Endgame stirred mixed reactions among fans regarding the creative choices made by directors Joe and Anthony Russo. However, it is undeniable that the scene carried immense emotional weight. Despite his character's death, there is still a possibility for Tony Stark to make a comeback in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU). Marvel Studios has previously employed fake deaths, but this may not be the preferred approach. Instead, the concept of the multiverse could offer the most promising avenue for his return.
If Marvel Studios decides to bring back Iron Man, they have numerous options available. However, it may be more beneficial if they refrain from doing so, as it could diminish the impactful and well-executed farewell given to the character in Avengers: Endgame. While a cameo appearance in the future could be a possibility, a full-fledged return to the Marvel Cinematic Universe seems unlikely. Therefore, the chances of an Iron Man 4 starring Robert Downey Jr. are extremely slim.
Currently, the MCU is in Phase 5 of the Multiverse Saga, where Marvel Studios is heavily focused on building the foundation for the culmination of their ongoing storytelling. Given this, their attention is primarily on the future rather than revisiting the past. Reviving Downey's character for a fourth Iron Man film, or any other founding hero who concluded their story arcs in the Infinity Saga, would only disrupt their carefully planned trajectory. Nevertheless, it is reassuring to know that there is a potential pathway for Stark to make a comeback in the franchise.
Source: Extra TV