The Marvel Cinematic Universe we all love had a massive big bang back in 2008 when Robert Downey Jr. first appeared as Iron Man. Since then, we have noticed grand events, new characters being introduced almost every year, and emotional farewells that seem not so long-lasting.
With the Tropic Thunder actor stepping back into the MCU donning a new suit, it’s time that we discuss how proud Stan Lee was of Downey Jr. and his portrayal of Iron Man.
According to ComicBook, Stan Lee himself shared his emotions, affirming that Robert Downey Jr. was meant to play that role during an interview at Rhode Island Comic Con.
That man was born to be Iron Man, you know? He’d be on the top of the list. When Robert Downey Jr. played Stark, he was just great.
Downey Jr. not only starred as Iron Man in the MCU but also kick-started what we are still enjoying on the big screen as well as on TV sets. The actor bid farewell to his role of Tony Stark, aka Iron Man, in the 2019 conclusion of the Infinity Saga, Avengers: Endgame. However, the actor is coming back as Doctor Victor von Doom in the next two Avengers movies, ready to grab the superheroes by the neck.
Other Actors Who Were Considered to Play Iron Man in the MCU
Besides Downey Jr., the actor closest to playing Iron Man in the MCU was Tom Cruise. Shedding light on this news, Sci Fi Wire reported, the Mission: Impossible actor stated to reporters back in 2005 (via ComicBook).
They…came to me at a certain point, and you know, when I do something, I want to do it right. And, you know, if I commit to something, it has to be done in a way that I know it’s going to be something special. And that…as it was lining up, it just didn’t feel to me like it was going to work.
E! News also reports that Leonardo DiCaprio was also considered to take over the armour of the tech billionaire. Beside him, our very beloved Wolverine, Hugh Jackman, was once considered for the role.
Meanwhile, it would be a big shock for you to know that the Children of Men star, Clive Owen, was on the list of actors to play Iron Man as well, as stated by Kevin Feige (via CBR).
2008 Iron Man Movie DVD Easter Egg Explains Stan Lee’s Pride
Stan Lee in Avengers: Age of Ultron | Credits: Marvel Studios
A DVD easter egg of the 2008 Iron Man movie showcases the close relationship Downey Jr. and Lee shared. The footage shows Lee being reminiscent, saying,
This gentleman was born to play Tony Stark, and the way he looks is exactly the way I picture him. We are so lucky to have him.
Lee was seen making a cameo in the aforementioned movie in a similar fashion he is praised for in every Marvel movie.
Watch the moment here:
Robert Downey Jr.’s Legacy Lives Even Today, as the Only Iron Man
Marvel’s Iron Man 3 | Credits: Marvel Studios
Even today, years after the death of Tony Stark, aka Iron Man, in the MCU, the character is remembered in many ways. First, it was in Spider-Man: Far From Home, and most recently in Deadpool and Wolverine, when Wade Wilson was heard talking to Happy about Stark and others.
The pressure from the fans, who missed Downey Jr.’s Tony, was so much that Marvel Studios had to bring the actor back in the game. Robert Downey Jr. will be seen playing Dr. Doom in Avengers: Doomsday and Avengers: Secret Wars.
Here are the details of every Iron Man movie.
Movie Release Date Director Iron ManMay 2, 2008 Jon FavreauIron Man 2May 7, 2010 Jon FavreauIron Man 3May 3, 2013Shane Black
Avengers: Doomsday will be released on December 18, 2026.
Avengers: Secret Wars will be released on December 17, 2027.
Iron Man movies are available to stream on Disney+.
This post belongs to FandomWire and first appeared on FandomWire
