There is some news for the fans of the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), which surprised everyone: Robert Downey Jr. is coming back, but this time not as Tony Stark but as the dangerous villain Victor von Doom, i.e., Doctor Doom! A fresh set photo created buzz among the fans, in which Downey appears in this new role for the first time. This picture is a glimpse of Avengers: Doomsday, and the enthusiasm of the fans is in the seventh sky.
In the set photo, Downey is seen in a stylish suit, with a light glimpse of green - the dear dom gesture to the famous green sheet. Right now, neither his iconic metal mask nor his full armor, but his look, is very smart and mysterious. A high-tech lab in the background is visible, perhaps a symbol of scientific talent related to Latvaria or Doom. This small glimpse is forcing fans to speculate about the story.
At the San Diego Comic-Con of 2024, when Marvel announced that Downey would become Doctor Doom, everyone was stunned. Downey, who played the role of Tony Stark/Iron Man for more than ten years, is now a big bet to become a villain. Fans are divided into two factions. Some believe that Downey's charismatic presence will make Doom unforgettable, while some are afraid that Stark's image may dominate this new character. But looking at this set photo, it seems that Marvel is fully prepared for this challenge.
Avengers: Doomsday, directed by the Russo Brothers, will be released on May 1, 2026. Russo Brothers, who gave blockbuster films like Infinity War and Endgame, can handle the story of this multiverse well. The picture shows that the character of Doom will initially be darker and more intelligent, not just a powerful villain. Fans are speculating whether Doom's character Stark will have any multiverse variant or be completely new. The picture does not make any big disclosure, but it increases curiosity.
A fans' debate has erupted on social media. Is it related to the experiments of Lab Doom? Is this the beginning of his enmity with Read Richards? And the Avengers coming in 2027: Given the Secret Wars, Doom's role can be even bigger.
Downey's Doctor Doom is a memorable moment for the MCU, which is showing a new way to refresh old memories. Whether they rule Latvaria or confront Avengers, Avengers: Doomsday is going to be a banging experience.