Key Takeaways:
– Robert Downey Jr. has expressed willingness to reprise his role as Iron Man in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU).
– Downey Jr.’s return would defy Kevin Feige’s earlier statement of not touching Tony Stark’s final moments.
– Fellow Avengers star Mark Ruffalo foresees this potential return could happen through time travel or alternate realities.
– Further exploration of Iron Man’s legacy carries concern it could affect character’s portrayal in other projects.
– Downey Jr.’s potential return could happen in Avengers: Secret Wars, scheduled for May 2027 release.
Marvel fans may still have a glimmer of hope that they have not seen the last of Robert Downey Jr. as Iron Man in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU). Following his character’s heroic death in Avengers: Endgame, Downey Jr.’s recent remarks have rekindled the possibility of his return.
Downey Jr.’s Possible Reprise of Iron Man
Downey Jr., in his cover story for Esquire, hinted that he is not completely closing the door on donning the red and gold superhero suit again. When asked if he would consider returning to the role of Tony Stark, aka Iron Man, in the MCU, the Oscar-winning actor responded, “Happily.”
While Downey Jr.’s statement doesn’t guarantee his return, it does leave room for speculations. Further elaborating, he said the superhero suit has become an integral part of his DNA. He asserted his faith in Kevin Feige, the president of Marvel Studios, stating that, “Never ever bet against Kevin Feige. It is a losing bet. He’s the house. He will always win.”
Marvel Studios’ Post-Endgame Challenge
The void left by Downey Jr.’s departure after Avengers: Endgame has been greatly felt. Audience interest in post-Endgame projects has seen a declining trend. However, it seems returning characters are still garnering a positive response from fans who have been calling for the return of Downey Jr.
Predictions for Iron Man’s Return
Interestingly, Co-star Mark Ruffalo, who plays Bruce Banner aka the Hulk, had earlier suggested how Iron Man could return. Despite the emotional departure of his character, Downey Jr.’s reappearance is not impossible given the MCU’s penchant for multiple universes and timelines. Ruffalo teased, “Sad, but there is a time machine. And there are alternate universes and realities, so anything could happen.”
Concerns Surrounding Iron Man’s Legacy
Despite the excitement around Downey Jr.’s potential return, it may come with challenges. Fans express concerns that a resurrection via time travel or parallel realities might affect Tony Stark’s legacy that is being explored in other projects.
Following Endgame, the Spider-Man films delved into the impact of Tony Stark’s loss. The forthcoming Ironheart series, too, is expected to delve into Iron Man’s rich history. Hence, careful consideration should be given to how a potential return could interact with these ongoing narratives.
Possible Return in Avengers: Secret Wars
Fans are speculating a possible reintroduction of Downey Jr. in the much-anticipated Avengers: Secret Wars. However, this chatter remains mere speculation as Marvel Studios is yet to confirm such a development. Secret Wars is slated for release in May 2027 giving Marvel ample time to figure out the best approach.
To sum up, Robert Downey Jr.’s potential return has ignited speculation and anticipation among Marvel fans. As we wait for official confirmation, one thing is clear – Iron Man still holds a dear place in the heart of the MCU and its fans.
