Robert Downey Jr.’s Missed Opportunity As Doctor Doom In Fantastic Four

Discover The Controversial Truth Behind Robert Downey Jr.’s Discussions To Play Doctor Doom In The Fantastic Four Film.

By Amitabh Mukherji
May 25,2023
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In a surprising revelation, it has been confirmed that Robert Downey Jr., best known as Iron Man, had discussions about portraying the notorious villain Doctor Doom in a Fantastic Four project. This intriguing possibility sheds light on a different timeline where Downey could have taken on a different iconic role.

Confirmation In Marvel Studios Video

Robert Downey Jr. as Iron Man
RDJ

The confirmation came in a video celebrating the 15th anniversary of Iron Man, where Marvel Studios President Kevin Feige and director Jon Favreau discussed the significant milestone. During their conversation, Favreau recalled how Marvel had previously met with Downey for the role of Dr. Doom, a statement that Feige acknowledged with a nod.

Previous Hints And Feige’s Acknowledgment

Kevin Feige

This revelation is not entirely new, as Downey’s discussions for the role of Doctor Doom have been hinted at before. However, it is the first time that Kevin Feige, the mastermind behind the Marvel Cinematic Universe, officially acknowledged these discussions. Favreau also shared his perspective, expressing that he fully understood the creative direction only after casting Downey as Tony Stark.

The Missed Opportunity

Dr.Doom
Dr.Doom

Despite the discussions, Robert Downey Jr. never had the opportunity to portray Doctor Doom. Nevertheless, fate had a different plan for him, as he went on to become one of the most iconic superheroes in pop culture—Iron Man. Downey’s immense talent as an actor would undoubtedly have made him an incredible Doctor Doom if given the chance.

A New Era For Fantastic Four

Did Guardians Of The Galaxy Vol. 2 Explain Fantastic Four’s MCU Absence

With the announcement of a Fantastic Four reboot within the Marvel Cinematic Universe, fans are eagerly awaiting the return of these beloved characters. However, it remains uncertain whether Doctor Doom will appear in the upcoming 2025 film. Furthermore, due to Tony Stark’s demise in the MCU, it seems unlikely that Robert Downey Jr. will have the opportunity to cross paths with the iconic superhero family.

Possibilities In The Multiverse

Doctor Doom
Doctor Doom

Although the chances of a crossover seem slim, the Marvel Cinematic Universe’s focus on the Multiverse and the potential for an event like Avengers: Secret Wars open up exciting possibilities. It is not entirely out of the realm of possibility that Downey Jr. could bring to life an alternate version of Doctor Doom—one that was never realized before.