Robert Downey Jr. Cast as MCU's Doctor Doom

Robert Downey Jr. is set to return to the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) as Doctor Victor Von Doom, a major departure from his iconic role as Iron Man, which he last played in 2019's 'Avengers: Endgame'. This announcement was made at San Diego Comic-Con 2024, where it was also revealed that the Russo Brothers will direct the upcoming films 'Avengers: Doomsday' and 'Secret Wars', slated for release in 2026 and 2027, respectively. This move comes as Marvel aims to revitalize the franchise following a series of underperforming films and the firing of Jonathan Majors, initially set to play Kang the Conqueror. Hugh Jackman and Chris Evans are also expected to return to the MCU, with Jackman reprising his role as Wolverine and Evans potentially making a cameo. The casting of Downey Jr. as Doctor Doom has received mixed reactions from fans, with some criticizing it as a gimmick while others express excitement.