Robert Downey Jr. Reportedly Earning Huge Sum for Marvel Return

Robert Downey Jr. is reportedly receiving a significant paycheck to make his return to the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU). It was recently revealed at ComicCon that the Iron Man star, whose character met a dramatic end in “Avengers: Endgame,” would be returning as a completely different character. This unexpected comeback has excited many fans while also raising eyebrows among others.

Downey Jr. will not be reprising his role as Tony Stark but instead will be playing the Fantastic Four villain Dr. Doom. This announcement has left Kang actor Jonathan Majors notably disappointed. The news accompanied the revelation of a new Avengers film titled “Avengers: Doomsday.”

While a large segment of fans are thrilled by Downey Jr.’s return, some have criticized the decision to cast him as Dr. Doom. Critics argue that this move could overshadow the established rivalry between Dr. Doom and the Fantastic Four characters, Reed Richards and Sue Storm, who are set to be portrayed by Pedro Pascal and Vanessa Kirby.

Moreover, Downey Jr.’s swift return to the MCU surprised many, given that he had recently won Best Supporting Actor at the Oscars for his role in Christopher Nolan’s “Oppenheimer”. The actor’s commitment to various other opportunities had hinted at a longer break from the Marvel universe.

Variety reports that Downey Jr.’s paycheck for this return will be upwards of $80 million (£62.7 million). The report details numerous perks in his contract, including private jet travel, dedicated security, and a “trailer encampment” for the freshly minted Oscar winner. Marvel’s head, Kevin Feige, has also reportedly secured an $80 million (£62.7 million) payday for “Avengers: Infinity War” and “Avengers: Endgame” directors, the Russo brothers. However, Downey Jr.’s deal is said to be even more costly for Marvel.

In addition to his MCU earnings, Downey Jr. could significantly outpace Adam Sandler, who was previously revealed by Forbes to have earned $73 million (£57 million) in 2023 from his four films. Insiders claim Downey Jr. has already made $500-600 million (£392-470.5 million) from his past involvement in the MCU.

While Downey Jr. has not publicly commented on his return, the Russo brothers provided some insight. They mentioned that the actor’s return is possible due to the multiverse—a collection of multiple worlds featuring both old and new characters—allowing for unlimited possibilities. This could imply that Downey Jr. will portray a villainous variant of Tony Stark/Iron Man, a character twist made feasible after Jonathan Majors’ departure from the MCU as Kang the Destroyer, originally intended to be the primary villain.

Comic book enthusiasts are divided over this news. Some believe Downey Jr.’s casting as Dr. Doom could divert attention from the character’s traditional rivalry with the Fantastic Four. Conversely, loyal fans are eager to see how he will bring his unique flair to this new villainous role.

Downey Jr. originally appeared as Iron Man in 2008 and portrayed the character in 10 Marvel films over 11 years. He once expressed his willingness to return to the Marvel universe, saying it was “an integral part of his DNA.”

The Russo brothers shared their thoughts at ComicCon: “When we directed ‘Avengers: Endgame’, Joe and I truly believed that it was the end of the road for us in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. In the time since, through a very special story, Joe and I have come to potentially see a road forward with you.”

Fans now await to see how Robert Downey Jr. will reshape the MCU with his new role and what exciting developments this casting decision will bring.

Source: Variety, Forbes