It was at the recent Comic-Con Hall H presentation that Marvel Studios made a surprising announcement: Robert Downey Jr. is returning to the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), but not as Iron Man. Instead, he will take on the role of the iconic villain Victor Von Doom, also known as Doctor Doom, in the upcoming films “Avengers: Doomsday” and “Avengers: Secret Wars” directed by the Russo Brothers.

Marvel Studios finding itself in talks with a pair of familiar faces to join the projects as directors. Wednesday, it was revealed Joe and Anthony Russo are gearing up to board Avengers 5—which used to be called Avengers: The Kang Dynasty—and Avengers: Secret Wars. All the air got let out of the tires on Avengers: The Kang Dynasty when the actor who played him, Jonathan Majors, got fired from the MCU after being found guilty of reckless assault and harassment.

This news was revealed with much fanfare, as Downey appeared on stage in Doctor Doom’s signature mask and green cloak, later unmasking to the crowd’s excitement. The Russos expressed their enthusiasm, noting that Downey’s return opens up new storytelling possibilities within the Marvel multiverse??.

This development follows the recasting of major MCU roles, particularly in light of Jonathan Majors’ departure after his legal issues. The shift from “Avengers: Kang Dynasty” to “Avengers: Doomsday” reflects Marvel’s adaptability and continued evolution of its cinematic universe?.