Key Takeaways:
– Robert Downey Jr. set to return as Doctor Doom in Avengers' upcoming sequels.
– The reputed actor is rumored to receive a salary of $100 million, possibly ascending to $200 million after the release.
– This huge figure raises questions amidst fans regarding the hiring of more authentic actors and improving film quality.
– Downey Jr.'s return risks potentially spoiling legacies of both Iron Man and Doctor Doom.
Robert Downey Jr.'s Staggering Doctor Doom Salary
Beloved actor Robert Downey Jr, better known for his role as the invincible Iron Man, made a shocking return to the cinematic universe this year. Known for holding one of the MCU's success pillars, Downey Jr's return stirred discussions amongst fans. But the rumor of his colossal paycheck now for playing Doctor Doom is raising countless eyebrows.
After his farewell as Iron Man post the Avengers: Endgame, MCU underwent a visible dip in its box-office scores. Besides few disappointing films, they also suffered a setback due to Jonathan Majors' legal problems, resulting in his termination. MCU then decided to pivot from Kang and introduce Doctor Doom, distinctively played by Robert Downey Jr. This decision led to massive headlines and a roller-coaster of fan theories.
The Eye-Popping Salary Details
As per reports from Jeff Sneider (via Culture Crave), Downey Jr. is supposed to receive a mind-boggling $100 million for portraying Doctor Doom in the Avengers' upcoming sequels – Avengers: Doomsday and Avengers: Secret Wars. Fans are now even more taken aback, with speculations that his salary could even scale up to $200 million after post-release profits. This news leaves fans divided on whether this is a desperate move by the MCU or a strategy for a blockbuster comeback.
Downey Jr.'s Comeback and Fans' Dilemma
In one of the episodes of the Awards Chatter podcast, Downey Jr. shared that he was astounded when approached for the role. However, many MCU enthusiasts feel that Downey Jr, imprinted as Tony Stark, should not have been recast, especially for a legendary character like Doctor Doom. They are questioning why the studio did not instead invest these funds in hiring more genuine actors and improving film quality.
Drawing parallels with Tom Cruise, who also bagged $100 million for his film Top Gun: Maverick, fans pointed out the differences in the two cases. They argued that Cruise's role in the movie was indispensable, and the film largely relied on him, while Doctor Doom could have been portrayed by an alternative candidate.
Downey Jr.'s Record-Breaking Deal
Despite the mixed reaction, it's hard to deny that Downey Jr., who recently bagged an Oscar and made some fresh script choices, wouldn't have returned without a staggering figure. This bold move by MCU holds the potential to disrupt how top-tier actors are bid in the industry. It sets up indispensable excitement for the actor's upcoming performances veiled in the character of Doctor Doom.
Variety mentions that not only the hefty sum, but Downey Jr. will also receive private jet travel, personal security, and a trailer encampment as perks. It remains to be seen how this gamble pays off for the MCU, a franchise that has grossed over $30 billion.
Looking Forward
As the dust settles on the drastic news, all eyes are set on the upcoming sequels, Avengers: Doomsday, releasing on May 1, 2026, and Avengers: Secret Wars, coming out on May 7, 2027. Fans are holding their breath to witness how this bold maneuver and investment plays out for the storyline and box office collections. Will this shocker salary story result in a paradigm shift in the MCU legacy or lead to an unprecedented fan backlash? Only time will tell.
