Robert Downey Jr. has weighed in on the similarities between Iron Man and Doctor Doom in Avengers: Doomsday. After leading the Avengers through the MCU’s first three phases, Downey Jr. will don a new mask challenging the heroes. While Tony Stark relied on technology, Victor Von Doom traditionally relies on sorcery and his wits.
Robert Downey Jr. compares his two MCU roles
In an interview with Entertainment Weekly, Downey spoke about the similarities between the two roles. “There’s the science thing, and then they’re considered, you know, pretty brilliant guys,” said Downey Jr. He noted how playing the villain felt isolating compared to his previous experiences playing in the Marvel sandbox.
“Tony had the trauma that kind of turned him into a hero, and Doom’s got the exact opposite, to where it takes the prowess of all of these folks to go up against him. And it’s a joy to behold. It was really weird being on the other side of a bad guy mask, because it’s just such an isolated vibe and I’m seeing them all socializing, and I’m the enemy.”
The interview comes after Marvel Studios showed exclusive footage centered on Doom during its San Diego Comic-Con panel. The footage showed Vanessa Kirby’s Sue Storm talking about Victor’s backstory. The new film will pit Doctor Doom against the united might of the Avengers, Fantastic Four, and the original X-Men.
Following Iron Man’s death in Avengers: Endgame’s finale, Downey Jr. is returning to the MCU after seven years. His return is also the reason why Chris Evans said yes to reprising the role of Steve Rogers in the upcoming ensemble. Doomsday will introduce the villain, who is traditionally a Fantastic Four foe, for the first time in the MCU. Following Marvel’s Comic-Con panel, Kevin Feige also compared Doom’s introduction favorably to that of Thanos.
Avengers: Doomsday will release in theaters on December 18, 2026.
